Preparing for surgery for endometriosis can feel daunting, especially as it may be your first interaction with the hospital system. That's why we've created a guide to help make this easier.

Before your surgery

  • Prepare a list of questions for your pre-op appointment and jot down your surgeon's answers.
  • Ask your surgeon whether bowel prep will be needed and get a copy of instructions.
  • Book in a post-op appointment (booking before surgery helps to avoid longer wait times after surgery).
  • Get an estimate of fees and if you have health insurance, check to see what will or won't be covered
  • Complete admission paperwork for your surgeon and hospital.
  • Organise leave from work, school or uni (check with your surgeon how much time they think you will need).
  • Organise some meals for after surgery (think nutritious, simple food that can easily be heated).
  • Clean your house/room - the last thing you want to do post op is housework!
  • Organise someone to be with you to drop you off, pick you up and stay with you for the first 24 hours.
Doctor showing patient image of pelvic area

 

What to bring with you to the hospital

  • Your medical history and list of medications.
  • Admission paperwork, Medicare card and health insurance card (if applicable).
  • Phone charger (consider getting a longer cord to make it easier if the plug is far away).
  • Phone or book to keep you occupied prior to admission.
  • Headphones to listen to your favourite tunes or relaxation exercises.
  • Lip balm and lollies for after surgery (you can feel a bit dry afterwards).
  • Wear loose comfy clothes (baggy pants/loose tops or dresses). 
  • Underwear (you may like to size up as your tummy can feel tender - high waisted or midi style can be good to avoid incision sites).
  • Slip on shoes (so you don't have to bend over). 
  • Pads or period underwear (there may be some bleeding following surgery - the hospital will have pads but if you have a preference bring them along).
  • Small pillow for traveling home (it can be handy to hold against your stomach when moving or in the car between the seatbelt and your abdomen).
    Loading surgery essentials into suitcase

     

      If you are staying in hospital overnight or for a couple of days (in addition to the above)

      • Any regular medications in original packaging.
      • Toiletry kit
      • Loose nightwear (e.g. nighties, baggy pyjamas)
      • Wet wipes/facial wipes (organic/fragrance free wipes can be handy to freshen up post op).
      • Eye mask and ear plugs to help you sleep. 
      • Snacks if you have particular dietary requirements (check with your surgeon about any dietary requirements post op).
      • Phone or tablet so you can stream music or movies (or download some to your device).

      After surgery

      • Take note of any post op instructions.  As you may be groggy, it can help to arrange for your partner or a companion to take notes.
      • Ensure you have a pain management plan (including post op pain medications)
      • Use a heat pack on your shoulders/upper back to help disperse the gas used during surgery (don't put a heat pack directly on your wounds).
      • Take time to rest and allow your body to heal.
      • Ask for help if you need it.
      • Avoid lifting anything more than 5kg in the weeks immediately following surgery.
      • If you have any questions contact your surgeon, hospital or GP.