You don't need much because you are pretty much doped up and will want to sleep a lot. I recommend lip gloss, toothbrush, hairbrush, and maybe something to do when you get bored. Be sure to get what you will need when you return home like chewable vitamins and protein powder (don't buy too much because you won't know what you will think tastes good).

I agree with Barb. I brought a couple of magazines and a tooth brush and a hair brush - that was about it.

I would suggest a body pillow. I was wishing I brought mine the whole time. Hospital pillows suck BIG time LOL

I also took easy to slip into slippers and a bathrobe for walking. They gave me some footies in the hospital, but you could bring a pr. of socks. Blistex or lip gloss is helpful as your lips will get dry that first 24 hours before you can drink. Lotion too, for hands or feet...felt good.

Good luck.

Socks and some kind of nightie that you can slip around an IV.
Slippers and a Robe.
Bring your Crystal Light singles with you.
They will come in very handy.

I have to say, I took my laptop so I could keep in touch with family/friends cause my hospital was over an hour drive for most and not many got there to see me. BUT... I signed on 1 day and fell asleep within a few minutes. SO it really was a waste of time to bring it! Chapstick is a necessity! A pillow to take with you on your ride home, so you can brace your sensitive belly on all the bumps (they will be hell)! I brought a pair of pajamas that were rather large in the belly and very soft so when I was finally able to shower and get changed I didn't have anything constricting and they were soft against my wounds on my belly. Slippers or some slip resistant shoes to walk in, and maybe a book or magazine. Don't think your going to do much there though, you will be quite drugged up and you will fall asleep at the drop of a hat, and in the middle of conversations. If people are going to visit, suggest they come after day 2 of recovery, you'll be a little more alert.
Good luck to you! It is going to change your life!

Favorite things that I took to the hospital were: cute slippers, cute robe, chapstick, pillow, and earplugs (I wore one at night to block out all the hospital noise).

Stuff I also used: toothbrush/paste, lotion, deodorant, hairbrush, shampoo/conditioner, contact lens stuff

Stuff I took but didn't use: a book (love to read but couldn't focus with the pain meds), magazine.

JJ

I would take a few feminine pads and a pair of undies.. just in case. I started my period the day after surgery and it wasn't time. I luckily had read here to take such things just in case. Other than that chapstick is a biggie and make sure whomever is giving you a ride home has a pillow in the car for your tummy when you go over bumps.

CHAPSTICK!!! LOL.. That's the only thing i needed.
Good luck to you

Just remember this you wont get any rest.Sombody will be comming by about every 2 hours to wake you up to get your vitals,blood sugar. to ask if you have been passing any gas,have you gotten out of bed to walk do you need anything.LOL I asked my nurse " Cant you do all this at once instead of evry 2 hours" she just started laughing and said I'll be back in a few to check on you.

Everybody is right, you don't need to take much. I USED my chapstick, pillow from home, slippers, robe and toothbrush. To be honest, I didn't care about much else. You will sleep and rest alot, which you need. Good luck and God bless. You will be in our prayers for a speedy recovery.

Thanks for all of your help guys. I really appreciate it!

Underwear and large pads! It is very common to start your period after surgery, even if it is not your time of the month. You are going to be sore, so having those "granny panties" on hand will be better than the hospital issued belt. Robe, slippers - do plenty of walking, it speeds up the healing process. Bring your cell phone to stay in touch with family and friends. You'll be out of the hospital in no time, so don't worry about too much. Congrats on your upcoming surgery! Your new life is about to start!!!