His and Her Health

Hi, I'm new to the board, but I'm hoping someone will help me with a question that I have. Next Friday I'm scheduled for an open knee surgery (hopfully outpatient). But I was looking on the calendar a few days ago and realized that most likely I will be on my period on the surgery day. My cycles are like clockwork most of the time. My question/concern is: will they have to reschedule the surgery because of this? I know I should ask the nurse or doctor, but I'm kind of embarassed to and I'm a worry-wort too!... Thank you, Suzie

They shouldn't have to reschedule surgery unless you usually have a really heavy flow, though I know that there are doctors who prefer not to operate while a woman is menstrating unless it's urgent. However, you should absolutely NOT wear a tampon into surgery, and you will have to tell your surgeon what is going on. Be aware, too, that you'll have to deal with your period while on bed-rest since this is open knee, so you may as well get used to the idea of being open about your period as your nurses (and once you get home whoever is taking care of you for the first fe days) are going to have to help you with this.

Thanx dona1 for answering my question! After reading your post, I realize that I need to let them know. I have to go to the hospital this Fri. for pre-op testing and I will tell them then. Fortunatly my mom will be the one to help me after the surgery, so I'm not worried about that. Thank God for mom's!!! And I'm feeling better about being open now.