Listed below, you will find general information to help you prepare for surgery. This information is only intended to serve as a guide. If you have received different instructions from your gynecologic oncologist, please follow those instructions carefully.

1. Eat light foods for the days leading up to your surgery. You should only drink liquids during the 24 hours before the procedure. You should also have a good bowel movement the day before surgery. To ensure that you do, you can use a fleet enema or a mild laxative. This will help reduce postoperative gas and intestinal discomfort.
2. It is important that you get a good night's sleep before your surgery. If you find you are nervous or anxious the night before, you can take an over-the-counter sleep aid. If you are already on a nerve medication, e.g., diazepam, please contact your primary care doctor for instructions.
3. If you will be staying overnight, you may bring a robe and slippers. You may also bring your own pajamas, but you will need to wear a hospital gown for the first few days. You will be given a personal supply basket with a toothbrush, toothpaste and other personal items. This is yours to keep. Please do not bring any valuables with you to the hospital. The hospital does have a safe to store valuables, but we strongly suggest you leave these items at home.
4. On the day of surgery, you should report to the admitting office in the lobby of the main hospital. You should bring your insurance cards and a picture ID.
5. Admitting representatives will escort you to the preoperative holding area, and your family members will be taken to the waiting area on the ground floor. In the holding area, the nursing staff, anesthesiologist, and physician assistant or resident will interview you. After the interviews, your family will be allowed to join you in the holding area until you are ready to go into the operating room.
6. Once the doctor has completed your surgery, he or she will speak to your family members in the waiting room.