Preparing for a Hysterectomy in New Zealand: My Experience and Tips

Today I'm writing in English on my blog. Usually, I post in Japanese, but I felt it was important to share this story with others who might be preparing for a hysterectomy in New Zealand.

In January 2025, I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids, and in May, I had a total laparoscopic hysterectomy with bilateral salpingectomy. I'm currently recovering well.

When I started preparing for surgery, I found it really difficult to get practical information online. While I did receive a hospital brochure explaining the surgery itself, there was nothing about what to bring, what was useful during the stay, or what to expect. This post is for anyone looking for that kind of information.

Basic Info

Hospital: Private hospital in Hawke's Bay
Cost: Approx. $30,000 NZD
Length of Stay: 2 nights
Procedure: Total laparoscopic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy

1. Clothes to Wear After Surgery

The surgery leaves four incisions: around the belly button, both lower sides of the abdomen, and the lower center. Unlike a C-section (which I’ve also had), the belly button incision sits exactly where your waistband or underwear elastic would be.

I highly recommend high-waisted, soft underwear. I ordered the "Medicure" line by GUNZE from Japan, and they were fantastic!! Your belly will be swollen from the gas post-op, so loose, gentle fabric is a must. Avoid anything tight or shaping.

For going home, a loose dress is best. Pants are doable but not comfortable. The only pants I could wear were very stretchy Merino joggers from Farmers.

Also, prepare easy-to-wear shoes. You won’t want to bend over to tie laces. I used Croc-style slip-ons.

2. Gas Pain Is Real

Laparoscopic surgery involves inflating your abdomen with gas. That gas doesn’t all disappear immediately after surgery. It can cause shoulder, neck, and stomach pain. For me, the first 48 hours post-op were tough.

Heat packs and peppermint tea helped a lot. Nurses brought heat packs frequently. I also brought some peppermint tea in my hospital bag, and it was great when I had no appetite but needed to drink fluids.

Walking as soon as you’re able (even short distances) also helps the gas leave your system faster.

3. A Long Phone Charger

After surgery, I couldn’t move much and was extremely drowsy from anesthesia. I brought a 3-meter charging cable, and it was a lifesaver. Make sure your phone and charger are in an easy-to-access part of your hospital bag so a nurse can quickly set it up for you.

4. Bandages and Silicone Tape

I was sent home with 4 waterproof bandages and painkillers (Panadol, Ibuprofen, Tramadol). Around day 4 or 5, fluid started to come out of my belly button incision, and I needed to change the dressing every two days. It would’ve been better to have extra bandages prepared in advance.

Don’t spend too much on these—any affordable waterproof bandages will do. You’ll likely go through a few, so it's best to have cheap and sufficient stock at home.

Once the wounds dry, I plan to use silicone tape to prevent keloid scars, as I’ve had one form after a previous C-section.

5. Pre-made Meals

One thing I regret not doing more of: preparing meals. The first two weeks after surgery, I was extremely tired and could only do light walking. Having young kids at home made it even harder to rest.

Takeout isn’t always healthy, and I wanted to cook but simply couldn’t. If I had more frozen or ready-made meals prepared before surgery, it would have helped a lot.

6. Support From Family and Friends

You absolutely need help after surgery. You’re not allowed to lift anything heavy or use your abdominal muscles much. Things like laundry baskets are off-limits.

Plan ahead—who will drive you to/from the hospital? Who can help at home? Also note: driving is not recommended for 4–6 weeks, partly because insurance may not cover you if something goes wrong.

7. Returning to Work

The hospital recommended 2 weeks of rest. I returned to remote desk work one week post-op. Sitting was fine, but I tired easily.

Thankfully, my employer allowed me to work from home, which made a huge difference. Please listen to your body—only return to work when you truly feel ready.

If you're reading this, you're probably preparing for surgery yourself. I hope this post helps make things a little easier. Wishing you a smooth procedure and a fast recovery!