Question:
I will be due to have my period on my date of surgery. What should I do?

Ok....On the day of my scheduled surgery, I am due to have my period. How is this going to happen? Will I be allowed to wear cotton panties? I have a feeling that I am not. Do I wear a tampon? That seems somehow dangerous. I need to do something....but what? LOL Sorry to get graphic, but I need an answer. SHould I tell my surgeon? SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME! Dying here from embarrassment!    — [Anonymous] (posted on December 12, 2000)

December 12, 2000
First of all, I would definetely discuss this with your doctor. He will know what is best for you to do. Also, when I was in the hospital, once the urinary catheter was removed and I was able to shower (the day after surgery) I could wear panties. They also put chucks under me, just in case I bled. I did end up getting my period, but I was due anyway and I got it 2 days post op. You may also want to consider asking for those net panties that they have on the maternity wards for new mothers. They stretch like crazy, but are snug, comfortable and hold a pad well. Maybe that would be an option. Just a few suggestions. Good LUck
   — enjo4

December 12, 2000
I got my period the day before my surgery. I just let the nurse know before I went to surgery that I was having my period. They put a pad under me during surgery. I did not prepare for it very well. I did not take enough underware. If I had to do it again I would have bought disposable panties and used them. It is very hard to bend to put panties on so make sure you have help. Good luck
   — Paula G.

December 12, 2000
I also got my period while I was in the hospital (day after the surgery) and thought I was having something else going on eventhough I was due because I wasn't having the cramping like I usually do or the really heavy flow. The nurse informed my that 95% of female patients get their periods while in the hospital, whether they are due for one or not. She said it's just your body reacting to the surgery. I had brought some pads with me (make sure you buy the longer ones) and the nurse put a chucks pad on the bed in case I bled. I didn't have trouble with my underwear. They fit right over the binder they have you wear. From what I was told, your next couple of cycles after this one will be a bit on the heavy side or you may even miss a period. It's just your body going through the stress of losing so much weight so fast. Try not to worry. It will be just fine. Good luck and God Bless! ^j^ Andrea
   — Andrea H.

August 20, 2001
I dont really have an answer! Just a commiseration! I too am due on that EXACT DAY! (in three days! August 23rd 2001 !) Plus, I know it will happen, as I have Alllllll the pms symptoms! (including extra weight gain ! arg!) I am glad I'm not the only one. I am SURE the dr's and nurse's have seen it ALL! ~Lisa (OPEN RnY on 8/23)
   — Lisa G.

August 20, 2001
I just LOVE this site. It seems everytime i think of a question, that same question is posted when I login that evening!!!! Someone is reading my mind. THIS very question came to mind today. I got my period today and my surgery is ONE month from tomorrow. The funny thing is, it's NOT due for 2 weeks so I thought I'd be OK. Thanks for the questions and answers.
   — Lyn R.