Preparing for your fibroid removal surgery can have you feeling a mix of emotions—anticipation, anxiety, and maybe even a touch of excitement for a fibroid-free future. As you prepare for this significant step in your health journey, one crucial task is getting your hospital bag ready. To help you ensure you have everything you need for your “Fibroid Eviction Day” and the subsequent recovery period, I’ve compiled a comprehensive checklist of essentials that helped me after my first surgery. 

Packing for Your Hospital Stay

Loose Clothing

• Elastic waistband pants: Comfort is key, and loose-fitting pants will be your best friend post-surgery.
• Loose T-shirt: Choose something breathable and easy to put on, as mobility may be limited initially.
• Loose or stretchy underwear: Wear something that’s comfortable and easy to get on for when you’re ready to be discharged from the hospital. 

Comfy and Grippy Shoes

Hospital floors can be slippery, so slip-resistant footwear with good support is a must. The hospital does provide grippy socks to help you get to and from the bathroom, but when you’re ready to be discharged, you’ll want a slip-resistant shoe to help you get into and out of your car. Slides, slippers, and crocs may increase the chance of tripping or slipping, so make sure you limit your fall risk by wearing the right shoes. 

Self-care Items

• Deodorant: Make sure you stay freshened up to feel your best.
• Lotion: Combat dry skin caused by the cold hospital environment.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Maintain oral hygiene during your stay.
• Brush and hair ties: Keep your hair neat and out of the way.
• Other essentials: Don’t forget to pack other self-care items you routinely use such as glasses, contact lenses, or sleep masks.

Electronics

• Laptop/Tablet: Keep yourself entertained with movies, books, or catching up on work.
• Phone: Don’t forget a charger with a long cord to reach across your hospital bed.
• Headphones: For a bit of privacy and peace if you’re in a shared hospital room.

Medications

Bring any prescribed medications you’re currently taking, along with a list of your medications and dosages. The hospital will provide you with pain medication, but don’t forget other medications you take often such as allergy medication, birth control, or other medications previously prescribed by your doctor.

Blanket

Hospitals can be chilly, and having a familiar and comforting blanket can make your stay more pleasant. This is one item I wish I had packed during my stay since I wasn’t a fan of the hospital blankets which can get pretty cold!

Books

If you’re an avid reader, bring along a few good books to pass the time. Here’s a list of recommended books that would inspire spiritual strength and help you maintain an educated approach to recovery:

Aftercare Essentials

Incision Site Supplies

Be prepared for dressing changes if necessary, so make sure to stock up on bandages, gauze, and tape. Your doctor might instruct you to apply Neosporin to your incision area to minimize infection and reduce scarring. 

Reacher

This is one that I used immediately once I got home from my surgery. Since you’re not allowed to strain yourself with twisting or bending movements, using a reacher can help you minimize the risk of injury and help you get the things you need while at home. I used the reacher listed below. It’s long enough to grab hard-to-reach items, has a strong grip, and it’s foldable so you can keep it compact inside purses or backpacks.

Pillow Wedge

Elevating your upper body and lower body can reduce strain on your incision site, making sleep more comfortable. I remember having restless nights upon returning home from surgery due to low back pain and being unable to find a comfortable sleep position. I ended up tucking pillows underneath my legs and knees to alleviate lower back strain, but I do wish I had purchased a pillow wedge, like the one below, ahead of time to help ease my transition home.

GasX Pills

Bloating and gas can be common post-surgery due to surgeons having to pump your body with gas to help navigate through organs during surgery; GasX pills can provide relief during recovery.

Walker

If recommended by your healthcare provider, a walker can assist with mobility during the early stages of recovery. I opted to purchase a walker for my aftercare recovery to limit my fall risk especially when at home alone.

Laptop Pillow Lap Desk

While staying mobile will help you recover faster, there will be those days when you are just extremely exhausted and want to stay in bed, and that’s okay! Stay productive or entertained with a laptop pillow lap desk without having to get in and out of bed. 

Immune Function Essentials

Making sure you are getting essential vitamins to help support your immune system will help with a smoother recovery. I prepared by stocking up on Elderberry and Vitamin D supplements, a multivitamin, and teas. Green tea is a great alternative to coffee to help satisfy your caffeine craving. Turmeric tea can help reduce inflammation and aid in your recovery process. The vitamins listed below are an affordable option and provide you with all the necessary vitamins and herbs to promote immune function.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for your fibroid removal surgery and the recovery period that follows. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider about any specific items or medications you should bring, and follow their instructions closely to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Wishing you a safe and comfortable journey to a fibroid-free future!

-The OT Latina