So there IS life after surgery!

Thanks for passing on your experiences.  I am due in 20 days and now I am starting to feel really nervous.  This is something I know I can do, and it is something that I want.  But the head plays screwy games.  Thanks for helping me prepare.

Unlike exercise, where "no pain, no gain" is a trueism, when it comes to post-surgical pain, those guidelines do NOT apply.  My surgeon, surgical PA, and nursing team were 100% agreed that you should take the pain meds just as soon as the pain level becomes uncomfortable again.  

With less pain, you can get more "movement" (walking, etc.) and that equates to a quicker release and return to "normal" life.  We (guys) tend to want to think we're tough and can "take it"...  But that's really counter-productive.  After major surgery, you need the pain meds.  Waiting until it feels like the pain is killing you is definitely not a good idea.

My surgical team used a morphine pump where I could click the button to get more pain management whenever I needed it.  I found that if I waited until I really NEEDED it, it took a long time to take effect, and wore of more quicky.  By pressing that button when the pain just started back towards the discomfort level, the meds kicked in more quickly, and I actually used less of it during the course of the day.  

Also, I walked a LOT the first night after surgery (well over a mile, spread over 5-6 sessions), and walked about 20 laps in one stretch on the morning after.  It really helped ease the gas pains (and gas passage, for that matter!).  

Good luck to you!