It’s natural to feel nervous or unsure before undergoing surgery, especially if it’s your first time. But you don’t have to worry, we’re here to answer your questions and explain everything you need to know. This article discusses what gynecologic surgery involves and how you should prepare for surgery.
What Is Gynecologic Surgery?
Gynecologic surgery includes any surgical procedure involving the female reproductive organs — uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, ovaries, vagina, and vulva.
This can include surgical treatments for various conditions like ovarian cysts, fibroids or cancerous tumors, uterine bleeding or prolapse, and pelvic pain or inflammation.
The different types of gynecologic surgeries include dilation and curettage or dilation and evacuation, vaginal procedures like hysteroscopy, abdominal procedures like hysterectomy (uterus removal) and myomectomy (fibroid removal), and laparoscopic procedures.
What to Do Before Gynecologic Surgery?
Once your doctor makes a diagnosis and treatment plan, they’ll seek your consent for surgery and finalize the date. You’ll most likely receive presurgical consultation around 48 hours before surgery. Make sure to call the hospital and confirm your appointment in case your surgery date is approaching and you haven’t received any notifications yet.
Here’s a pre-op checklist for gynecologic surgery:
- Discuss with your surgeon and anesthesia providers which medications you need to start or stop taking before the surgery. For example, you’ll need to stop taking blood thinners around 7 to 10 days before surgery to minimize the risk of bleeding.
- Complete all pre-op tests recommended by your surgeon.
- Ensure that your insurance paperwork is up to date to prevent any hassles after surgery.
- Designate a family member or friend to coordinate with your doctors and stay with you during and after your procedure.
- Arrange for child or pet care when you’re away during surgery.
- Confirm with your surgeon whether bowel prep is required for your surgery because this will require advance preparation on your end.
- Avoid smoking, drinking, or taking recreational drugs for at least a day before surgery.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 8 hours before surgery.
- Wear clean clothes and don’t use any creams, lotions, or make-up on the day of the surgery.
- Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of a rash, cold, flu, or other infections before surgery.
What to Carry for Gynecologic Surgery?
Here’s what you need to bring on the day of the surgery:
- All your previous medical records, such as anesthesia records of procedures you may have undergone in other institutions
- Your latest medical test reports like blood work, ECGs, or X-rays if they were performed outside the hospital
- Your photo ID and health insurance card
- A list of all the medications you’re currently taking with the dosages specified
- Cash, checkbook, or credit card, depending on whatever payment modality you plan to use
- Your glasses, dentures, pacemaker or defibrillator, hearing aid, or any other devices that you regularly use
- Your toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant, as well as a robe and slippers, if you need to be admitted and the hospital doesn’t provide them
How Can NVSCC Help
The Nevada Surgery & Cancer Center in Las Vegas treats various gynecologic cancers. Schedule an appointment today to receive a consultation, resolve your queries, or seek treatment guidance for any gynecologic concerns.