Okay sorry if I this is TMI

Karen, You hit the nail on the head. That's my issue, I don't want to feel any more uncomfortable than what's expected from the surgery. The way things is so high tech, why didn't someone invent a gadget for this. The issue is the catherer, you can't put any protection on with the catherer. But anyway I'll cross that bridge when I get there. Thanks for your input.

I am as regular as clock work but don't you know I was late and started my period 2 days before surgery. I went to the hospital with pads and extra of my own underwear. I woke up with a foley catheter and had a friend help me put on my shorts and underwear. You certainly can use a tampon with a foley catheter. They are inserted in different openings. As someone who works in the operating room, there is no reason to be embarrassed we see this all the time.

I had my surgery recently with Dr.Averbach (Aug.18,2006) I was told to bring pads and that the hospital has some pads too but theirs are pretty bulky. If I was more comfortable with my own to bring them but not to use tampons. That is my experience but I would still check with your Dr.- or Cathy at Dr Averbachs. Good luck and keep me posted.If you want to talk drop me an email.Have a great day. Love Laurie