On your period in surgery?

There are many hormonal changes with the stress response of surgery and anesthesia, and there can be interactions with the hormonal changes of menstruation on your period. Anesthesia itself is unlikely to affect your period and the related hormones, but the overall stress response can absolutely affect those hormones. Any bleeding during surgery can easily be contained with a pad on the OR table, just let your know OR team know!

[@Unofkystudent]

I used to think that stuff would be embarrassing but then I remember that anesthesiologists, OR nurses, techs, and all, literally assist through births, hysterectomies, pelvic surgeries, etc... for y’all it’s just a blip on the radar of what’s happening. I remember being scared after waking from my hysterectomy and going to the bathroom because there was a good deal of blood. I got a smidge woozy sitting there and the (male) nurse asked if he could come in to help. He helped me up, helped me get situated, then literally took a look at the blood in the toilet for me and assured me it was a normal amount. In the moment he was so kind and professional about it that I didn’t even think to be embarrassed.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Well said, it's barely a blip!

[@lianealbert7728]

I’m having one in May. I have already been through menopause so the thought of those meshy loose disposable underwear will be interesting. The first few times going to the bathroom must be really painful.

[@Unofkystudent]

@@lianealbert7728 I wore the mesh underwear home and changed out of them pretty much immediately 😂 hated them! Bikini style panties that sit low on the abdomen were perfect. Peeing right after any surgery that needs a catheter is not fun, but the burning didn’t last too long and it wasn’t painful at all after that. Having that first movement a day or two after surgery was scary though because I didn’t know what to expect. Ended up not being fun but not awful. Definitely use Colace for a couple weeks. I kept my ovaries since I was only 35 (40 now and had one removed in December). You will do awesome!! Good luck!!!

[@myfirstnamemylastname2994]

Yeah the first time you have to have a bowel movement after vaginal prolapse repair is pretty terrifying. I was sure I was going to burst my stitches but my surgeon told me know they're sturdier than that unless you're screening don't worry about it. It didn't even hurt especially much compared to some of the stuff that I've been through and it didn't bleed a lot more either. But the anticipation was terrible😮. If I have any more surgery like that and you can be sure I will be skipping a couple of meals the day before maybe take stool softener something to make sure that doesn't happen.

[@highvalue1195]

I’m a nurse and I rip ass in front of nervous patients just to let them know it’s ok and I’m an animal 🐷

[@Sonns7900]

Word of advice when it comes to hospital, leave your dignity at the door and pick it up on your way out.

[@lethabrooks9112]

Yep! Nurses and Doctors have seen it all!

[@Momshouseofchaos]

Its not so much that you leave your dignity at the door as it is that preserving that dignity is going to look a little bit different. While you might be going through things that are unpleasant, uncomfortable, and normally embarrassing in everyday life, hopefully those caring for you in the hospital are going to help you get through those experiences by treating you with professional grace & compassion in a way that helps protect & preserve your dignity.

[@sinisterwinds4558]

That's a pretty degrading view, imo. What you basically say is that dignity doesn't matter to patients inside the hospital as they have none as long as they are there. They regain their dignity when leaving the hospital. - That's not the way I want my doctors to think about me or other patients.

[@SL-gz3dy]

​​@@sinisterwinds4558the point is that you should not care about what the doctor or nurse sees or knows about you while being there. For example when you shit yourself, just ask for help and tell them. Don't let your dignity keep it a secret while cleaning it up yourself. You might keep important information that way and you don't help yourself with that.

[@bodyofhope]

​@@SL-gz3dyleave your "modesty" at the door. But dignity should always be maintained.

[@kianahrwilliams1360]

i love how my first thought was "oh no i dont want my surgeon to see my period blood" as they're literally about to look at my organs LMAO

[@maggie0285]

😂 Wouldn't want to embarrass him

[@tracyhill6166]

But the blood looks the sane 😅

[@ykwtfim]

“Dr, please have some decency and respect. Keep your eyes up here on my visceral organs, not my period blood. Thanks!”😂

[@cheesecakelasagna]

I had an appendix surgery, and after I woke up, realized they shaved some down there, I thought, "Hey, that's some clean shave!" 😅

[@slantdwave]

Modesty is normal

[@hishouha]

As a health professional I can confirm that you do NOT have to feel embarrassed about anything your body does. I would never even think of judging a patient because they stained something, or had an accident or whatever, it’s natural, it’s the body ! Anyone that would judge a patient for that kind of thing shouldn’t be in those fields… Edit : I’m sorry to anyone that have had bad experiences, this should never have to happen to you and sadly there are some healthcare providers that should never be in that field yet they are for who knows why. I want to specific that whatever they tell you, you don’t have to feel like you’re the one to blame. If they have something to say about what you cannot control, then they’re the one in the wrong, not you. You’re the patient, you’re in a hospital : a place where they deal with bodies. There’s nothing pretty about it and it’s OK, it’s NORMAL. Sickness is not meant to be pretty. And know that there exists people in this world that understand that. I wish I could be there to tell those things to all of you who have been abused in your most vulnerable state.

[@Jessicinya2023]

Omg, God bless you. ❤

[@kerriegorman2225]

What if they treated you badly after brain surgery for an undiagnosed brain injury that you just received in surgery (third ventriculostomy)? It happened to me and still live with the injury (brain damage). That was the hardest surgery I've had to deal with, and I've had a few different types.

[@hecallsmefancy]

Agree 💯 %… most of my family and myself are in or have been in the medical field and I can tell you if something surprises you or scares you that a patient does or you feel you should judge them for it.. move on to another career!!

[@chattycatty3336]

@@kerriegorman2225 im really sorry to hear about your experience, but I'm confused how that relates to the comment here... they are talking about doctors judging patients for things that are deemed "embarrassing", not medical malpractice...

[@Sugarskulladdict97]

Yet there’s a plethora of misogynistic men in the field I’ve read some rather upsetting stories Reddit, most men just ain’t shit but I hope those that are the most respectful and considerate

[@deannad9105]

I remember asking my surgeon what I should do if I was on my period for my hip replacement surgery date. He said, "Hmm, that's not usually an issue for my hip replacement clients"🤔😂

[@lace312]

😂😂😂

[@kirin1230]

Took me a sec bahahaha

[@GorgieClarissa]

hahahahaha!!!

[@Tara-cv2kz]

oh gosh that will be me someday

[@lisasunshine773]

I am a retired nurse and thought the same when I read you’re comment.

[@cheryldwyer9804]

I started mine the day before my hysterectomy. I cried, I told the nurse and said I thought they'd have to cancel the surgery. She said, 'nope, you may be on it now but you won't be when they get done.' I loved that nurse.

[@mason4533]

the sheer relief and joy, I assume, you got from that joke must’ve felt amazing

[@Lady.Fern.]

I woke up from my excision of endometriosis and they had triggered bleeding and gave me a pad without me knowing so when I went to the bathroom while coming off anesthesia the nurse that took me had to stop me as I sat down to tell me I had a pad that luckily my thick thighs held in place on my waddle over to the bathroom lol and what did I do, did I take it and place it in the trash next to me? No I was loopy and handed it directly to my nurse 😅 she was a champ and didn’t say a word about it, she did look a little bewildered though hahaha about three days later when I realized what I had done I felt so bad 😂

[@jeannine4251]

Aww, that was so true!

[@Vaijanti982]

I’ve got to have surgery for my hearing soon but I’ve ask for a sudden appointment (take any one that’s been cancelled) since then I can say no just incase I’m on my period then 😭

[@Sharon-pb7so]

I was having laproscopic surgery to check on my endometriosis, I told my doctor that I'd just started my period and I always bled profusely. He said, "I'll take care of that" what an awesome thing. He got rid of my period for that month. He called it the "Blue Plate Special". I spent 7½ long years with him as an infertility specialist. We finally got our miracle baby. Thank you and RIP Dr. Stephens. What a good man he was.

[@RJkania123]

❤❤ I am happy you finally got your baby

[@missan3cute]

Out of curiosity, what's the "blue plate special".😊

[@ponchotheunicorn5288]

​@@missan3cutethey probably went in and cleared out the lining ( what sheds during your period every month) while they were checking for endometriosis and everything else

[@missan3cute]

@@ponchotheunicorn5288 aha, I see:)

[@hastyink]

@@ponchotheunicorn5288 no, that is enough surgery. What he did was stop her hormones completely with pills. So he could preform said surgery.

[@xcx67]

I got my period right before I went in for a gall bladder removal. I was super embarrassed but all the staff made me feel very comfortable. From what I experienced it didn’t mess with my period at all.

[@TheThriftyGma]

.They gave me a pad and mesh panties for my gal bladder surgery. Not sure if they removed and replaced.... I didn't ask.. ha

[@andream9470]

​@@TheThriftyGmathose mesh undies are the BEST

[@Cafeallday222]

I got mine 2 weeks early after surgery, along with nightmares. My body was not impressed. That has never happened before, or since (10 years ago), so I know it was the surgery.

[@moniquearnold1916]

@@Cafeallday222 I got mine early, as soon as I got home from gall bladder surgery.

[@Hyperlophus]

Surgery may have messed with mine. I got my period immediately post galbladder removal when I went to pee. I had a chest tube, because of surgery complications, that was leaking bloody fluid at the same time. I was very panicky when I called the nurse for help. (I was fine, just needed an extra bandage over the tube site and a pad)

[@ccoop3774]

Ladies it's not a big deal. Like the doc said, we'll make sure there's chux pads under you. We stock sanitary pads. We'll make sure you're clean and dry before you leave the OR suite. That's why it helps when you tell us. If you don't, depending on your surgery, we may not check down there.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for that explanation!

[@ccoop3774]

@K I'm sorry. That should never have happened. I have cleaned that type of drainage for my patients so many times. We should always be in the mindset of how we would want to be treated. You can always report that type of subpar treatment. It should make it where the next patient receives better treatment.

[@ccoop3774]

@@MedicalSecrets 👍

[@RG-hf4et]

It's a BIG deal to us ladies on periods & for those that can'thold their urine!!

[@goingslowlynowhere]

@@RG-hf4et Yeah. The mindset of "it is not a big deal for US, the people paid to deal with your body" is fair, but all in all? It does not mean that it is not a big deal for the owner of said body.

[@paularobinson5031]

My 13 yr old daughter got her first period an hr before having being prepped for neurosurgery- she was so mature and chilled about it - not least bc we were in a foreign country ( from australia but her surgery was at Texas Childrens Hospital ).. i had a feeling she might start her period during this time so luckily we came prepared and it was not a surprise we couldnt manage together.. ps: since her surgery she has been 100% seizure free

[@darquequeen]

Yay🎉

[@kimtoney4823]

Thank the Lord!

[@corinnaandreas68]

Super❤

[@blatherskite268]

I don't understand this part, why can't they just let you wear underwear and a pad? Because a neurosurgery has nothing to do with anything anywhere near your genitals, so wouldn't being on your period for something like this be irrelevant?

[@74betty]

So happy to hear that!!

[@icantbeliveitisnot]

Im glad everyone here had a better experience than i did. I was in an accident that ended up tearing both of my ACLs and breaking my wrist. I couldn't bear any weight and started my period in the emergency room. I pressed the nurses button and an aide came to help me. I explained to him i started my period and needed help. He gave me a bed pan. Wtf is that gonna do!?? I think he thought it comes out like urine. I told him i needed a wheelchair so i could go to the bathroom. He went to the nurses desk, right outside of my room and had a temper tantrum like a toddler. I heard him tell the nurse he "isn't putting his hands anywhere near my bloody crotch!" My husband, a firefighter and ems went out and raised hell. He first educated them we can hear everything, and explained that is not how periods work. The nurses looked super scared. My husband was pissed! Then some much higher up at the hospital got involved. My husband told everyone to get away from me and he just helped me himself. I will say the surgery team was much much nicer and better about my period. I wonder if they all were made aware of the idiot aide who didn't know how female bodies work.

[@jaime4890]

Oh my, I’m so sorry that happened to you. So glad your hubby was there to put the nurse in his place. Way to go hubby.

[@outsidersongs2682]

That is appalling! He should never have been in nursing with that attitude. Your husband sounds great, advocating you perfectly.

[@artisticanna5275]

Aww that's terrible 😔 but I'm happy to hear that you have an amazing husband 💜

[@tracye9534]

I laughed so hard about that aide, but you had the right people at your side to help out though. Whew!

[@kristinetaulbut4975]

What a moron. And what the hell is he doing in the medical field

[@robinfarrar3493]

I got my very last period the day of my partial hysterectomy. 😂 I told everyone because I thought it was so funny that my body seemed to know that that day was it’s last opportunity to make me suffer. The pure joy of knowing I’d never have another miserable month actually prevented the pain that day. The ONE time I started without any pain at all. That was also funny. Again, it’s like my body was trying to say ‘No wait! We can do this without making you sick for days! WAAAIIIITTTTT!’ LMAO! Seriously, if the uterus was an organ that grew back (like a lizard’s tail) I’d happily have that surgery over and over again and again. It really was the best thing I ever did.

[@kimcwhite6509]

Best comment Robin! Uterus' give blessed gifts, but otherwise they are PIA!

[@sharonglynn9208]

I had a total abdominal hysterectomy 22 years ago, and the same thing happened! The day before the surgery, I got my period. I told the doctor when he came to see me in pre-op, and he just said, "So?" Made me feel dumb but I thought they'd want to know so they could put pads or Chux down. I didn't have any bleeding at all after my surgery, which was nice!

[@robinfarrar3493]

@@sharonglynn9208 sounds like you had a real *winner* for a doctor. I’m sorry he made you feel that way. If he’d been worth his salt he’d have laughed at the irony the way my surgical team and I did. Of course I think some of their laughter was because of mine vs the situation. Lol!

[@ShaynieB]

I just had one 9/8/23 and exact same thing happened. It was like my body knew I was getting rid of periods forever, and either wanted to have me with one last ounce of misery, or to remind me that I can have a period without pain( 1st time for me as well without pain). I said to my uterus “you should have thought about that before failing me for 31 years! 😂

[@Misk-mj3lu]

Mind me please, my native language is not English so I'm curious , what is this operation? Like for medical issues or what?

[@katherineh.6852]

Peri op RN here I got warm wet wipes, comfy Underpants, pads, hot packs, warm blankets and Tylenol and ibuprofen post op (and probs some oxy too 😂). Got you covered girl❤

[@crowgang6678]

Bless you, I'm sure so many women are grateful for your compassion and consideration.

[@JoyceB-qv9xq]

@katherinen.6852. You are a beautiful soul. Bless you.

[@user-jm3ob3hl2t]

I was in nursing school and my rotation in surgery was my favorite and I would definitely do the same to help them out lol. I'd be advocating for morphine after a surgery but some practioners can be stingy

[@sweethomechicago]

​@@user-jm3ob3hl2told become a periop RN, the world needs great ones

[@TheTALONtedEagle]

Thank you for going that extra step for us patients. I'm 39 now but in my younger years I was so much more shy when it came to talking about these topics so I appreciate your efforts. ❤

[@chereec7701]

I'm a nurse, and to us, it's just another day at the office. There's no need to apologize or be embarrassed. We definitely are not judging you, laughing at you, or telling anyone. Speaking for myself, I feel that much more compassion for you ❤

[@catsrule8844]

I have been told all the opposite things by a nurse and I’m much more likely to believe them. No offense to you personally!

[@teaacustardcream2868]

@@catsrule8844I am a nurse and never heard any staff member complain about cleaning bodily fluids ever

[@shsl_empath5437]

i had a colonoscopy while on my period at 17 years old, i woke up with a new pad and being clean ! i appreciate the doctors and nurses who were not bothered at all and kept me comfortable !!

[@BKJay718]

I told my lady nurse before my neurosurgery. She was like “that’s it?!” I was still slightly embarrassed. I felt at ease with her, my lady anesthesiologist and surgeon ❤

[@vickirichardson372]

I was in a extreme DV marriage and her beat me so hard that I lost a majority of my teeth. I wound up with full dentures eventually. I had no way to leave and once I did being a single mom left me with more concerns for my children than something silly like teeth. When I remarried I had insurance and had dentures made. Then I had to have surgery. I canceled 6 times because I didn’t want anyone to know I had dentures. When I finally went in I started crying, they thought from fright, until I told them the truth about my teeth. The nurse was so amazing, don’t you worry I’ll take care of you. I’ll have them back to you before I bring your husband back to see you. You will be fine, I got this. And she did. I remember her waking me up saying honey let’s wake up so I can put your beautiful smile together and go get your husband. She understood the assignment! ♥️♥️

[@lethabrooks9112]

Was on my period during my shoulder surgery. Told the nurse and she padded me up and I was good to go.

[@myfirstnamemylastname2994]

Too bad not every hospital does that level of conscientious care.

[@felicityjohnston9276]

why should that matter for that type of surgery?

[@crypticshadows]

@@felicityjohnston9276because you are still getting surgery 💀💀 and your period still will happen

[@user-jm3ob3hl2t]

​@felicityjohnston9276 because some surgeries can take long so if you are on your period you are bound to bleed and you're practically naked in any type of surgery. They will use drapes and you wear a hospital gown. If you tell the nurse she will have you covered so you aren't a mess by the time they're done operating

[@felicityjohnston9276]

@user-jm3ob3hl2t so I have read. and yes I know you get put into hospital clothing while inpatient and they add the hat thingy to cover hair for surgery. still wouldn't allow them access to my lower half without consent first. emergency or otherwise. it's a violation of my body to just go in my pants,even to clean blood or anything off me. and I wouldn't wear a tampon if I was going in for a surgery longer than 2 or so hours. most can be inside you for up to 8 hours,depending on the flow. I never have them in that long bec I bleed too much most of the time but STILL. wouldn't feel comfortable them just touching me where they shouldn't be for a surgery that's not down there. it is one thing to give consent prior to going under but unless I'm bleeding through my tampon and pad ( unlikely) causing a blood bath around me there's legit no reason to be touching me there. and just because someone is in the hospital underwear, pants and gown, they should not feel so comfortable to just invade the person's private parts just because they have easier access than in regular street clothing. the medication they use doesn't interact with your period, as he himself stated, so highly unlikely I'd end up covered in blood for a short surgery time of 2 hrs or less. and with that it would make no real sense to not let the person keep the fresh products already have on or in them rather than forcing them to remove to put a stupid pad or diaper on. doing so would actually prove more likely to cause a mess............I use BOTH tampon and pad at the same time. it would catch everything and if I didn't tell them I had it they wouldn't even know. though obviously I do know it's best to tell them,for my own safety. for instance when I had to get an xay and lay on a table for it the lady kept trying to make sure that 1 I wasn't pregnant and 2 I wasn't on or about to start my period, bec the xray on my spine would hurt me I guess. I kept reassuring her im not and I had already had it way earlier in that month so it was absolutely safe to continue.

[@Theothevaultscribe]

I ended up with a endo consult after my knee surgery because I had some much period bleeding during my meniscus removal and tendon repair😅 They were more concerned with how much vaginal bleeding there was over my knee, and I’m like that’s normal and my doc was like “loosing 2 cups of blood and dropping near golf ball size clots is not normal.”

[@bradlayhughes6043]

Omg I had a knee chondroplasty and biopsy for a maci and I got my period like 4 days after and thought something was wrong lol! It was the worst period I've ever had! Glad it's not just me

[@TEDOGIRL02]

I’m glad they saw it firsthand. You’d think we were just lying for funsies.

[@rejac2833]

You too! I laugh when they say you only loose 7 tbsp of blood only each period. My period says: Hold my beer! A 60 pack of pads and 2 bins of tampons later and I am free from it until next month. 😮 I have to eat steaks and meat during my period so I won't pass out.

[@wendicrawford3546]

I feel you on that. My doctor is trying to get me scheduled for a hysterectomy due to having such large fibroids and a huge cyst larger than my ovary on one side. Also huge clots and bleeding like I'm dying for 2 to 3 weeks every month.

[@catpoke9557]

​@@wendicrawford35462 to 3 weeks!? That's most of the month!!

[@kelseymatlock9137]

Didn't matter, they still let me roll out of there in a wheelchair soaked and covered in my own blood. I was still so out of it when they told me to get dressed I didn't realize it until they made me use the restroom, I was screaming because I thought they messed me up or something, turns out it was just my period. The nurse was so mean about it to, I cried for days after

[@heehoopeanut420]

That's why I HATE all these comments saying "just tell them that's what they're there for". As if MOST hospitals aren't shitty and full of shitty staff. This isn't greys anatomy, the Dr, nurse, etc isn't guaranteed to be qualified let alone nice. I hate it. We need reform so badly. I'm sorry you went through that :(

[@Elle-ht3km]

This is horrible! Sorry you had that experience

[@jclyntoledo]

That's literally traumatizing

[@TEDOGIRL02]

I’m so sorry. It’s true you dk who you’ll get. Always advocate for yourself.

[@RedRuby_27]

Yup to be expected. I don’t deal with doctors unless it’s absolutely necessary. All my immediate medical needs can be solved at a 24hr urgent care. Just my yearly check up and bloodwork are done with my doctor then I’m not coming back for another year. It is literally hellish to deal with those people. 🤦🏽‍♀️

[@scoutlaceharding]

I'm always glad videos like this exist. I think there's value in reminding people that the things you might feel embarrassed about are literally normal, everyday occurrences for medical professionals. People who work with human bodies every day aren't judging you for your bodily functions.

[@discogoth]

Yep!!! I was a CNA in a nursing home for a few years that also had a physical rehab floor (mostly elderly people coming out of knee replacement surgeries, broken hips or other injuries, etc.) and a hospice floor. I was typically in hospice, but spent a bit of time on the rehab floor. They’re often the most embarrassed because they’re often independent prior to their surgery or fall, so they’re usually not “veteran intimate care patients” like many of my hospice patients. When they’d apologize for needing help using the bathroom or showering, I’d just explain that literally the only thing that registers to me when I’m with a patient is what I need to take care of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, and how I can preserve their feelings of independence and dignity in the process. Like sure, I am helping you wipe after using the bathroom, I’m changing your incontinence brief and cleaning your catheter, I’m emptying your ostomy bag. But what I see is a task to complete and a person to do it for. Takes a hell of a lot to even phase me after working there from ages 16-20yo. Especially with primarily working with hospice patients. Medical professionals are pretty desensitized to gross stuff, for obvious reasons lol. But also because the things that stick with us are rarely bodily functions, even if they’re uniquely messy- the things that actually shock us (or even register as anything other than neutral tasks to complete) are often the deaths or suffering of a patient. From a CNA/nursing home employee perspective, seeing someone need to leave the rehab facility before they’re ready because of insurance, watching patients suffer because you’re one 17yo taking care of 20 hospice patients alone and can’t possibly be in 20 places at once, and watching patients die alone because their families didn’t visit them is what actually registers as “gross and unpleasant” and takes up space in our minds. Same with the positives, like a patient taking a huge step towards recovery, being discharged, or receiving visits from family they haven’t seen in awhile.

[@futureeldridgeterror2483]

Honestly after I got my first cyst on my butt crack, I have no problems telling doctors things or bothering to be be embarrassed. Having to drop your pants and bed over a table for a cute doctor isn’t like they said it would be.

[@arkhykatenka]

do you have HS too? it sucks

[@Hugsand_Disses]

Like a cyst at the very top of your buttcrack, like tailboneish? I’ve had that, when I had a fractured foot, front sitting down so much. Having it drained and packed was so painful.. plus I already had a cast on my leg 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️

[@catpoke9557]

I forget what it's called but this is a common spot for cysts and abscesses to form. It's so common that there is a specific name for it

[@RichielaurensIII]

Same with a colonoscopy at a young age, it just kinda stopped being an issue for me after that

[@baileyleonard6282]

I just had my pilonidal cyst removed its not fun at all. Im 9 days post op and still have at least 8 weeks recovery.

[@stacey738]

In the hospital TELL THE NURSES!! "My period just started and I'm wasn't prepared, can i please get a pad?" They have an entire hospital store full of stuff like this! Literally. Pads, earplugs, eye masks, even stuff you wouldn't expect. I got nursing nipple protectors even when i was in after giving birth. I even was in for an emergency with my daughter who was 2, completely unexpected and unprepared and they helped me with a phone charger. Again. ASK THE NURSES.

[@kerriegorman2225]

They didn't have earplugs at my hospital. Hardly slept till I got home, wearing my own ear plugs, as they threw my earplugs away when they took me out for tests. They should keep them at the hospital.

[@dorothywillms115]

WOW you must be at a Hilton hospital. Up here in northern Canada they give you NO info. I had my gallbladder out at 32. Got my period next day which was early. I went through many many pads that day and thought I must be hemorrhaging. Had my 6 day period in one day.I could hardly make it to the bathroom. The nurse said I looked so great and so did my sister in law. The nurse didn’t even check to see if I was running a fever which I was. Then they firmly told me I was an annoyance for asking for pads and my husband had to buy me some the next day. That was years ago. In all my 75 years I’ve rarely met anyone in medicine which isn’t arrogant or cold except for the doctor I’ve had now for 18 years. He also is just a human being and has made mistakes and yes he sluff them off but hey at least I have a doctor when many others don’t. It sounds like I’m not alone. In recent years Dr. Google has really helped us out.

[@Ashmeet_Sehgal]

Nobody ever told me how COLD the OR is. Woke up shivering even with two blankets

[@bradlayhughes6043]

The anesthesia makes you shake too

[@MichaelBuckley284]

Yep, 68-73 Fahrenheit is the accepted standard in the United States (a lot of factors contribute as to why). Humidity is also kept in parameters (20-60% relative humidty) for microbial concerns and electrosurgical reasons (too high of humidity causes increased static, and too low can cause sparking). It is a pretty tightly controlled environment, for good reason.

[@BrandonEscobar-hd2lo]

Nobody ever told how cold the or is. Woke up sharing even with two blankets

[@ReyOfLight]

The OR is kept pretty cold to keep the surgeon comfortable as they wear their scrubs, their surgical gown, quite possibly an apron, gloves, the hair cover and mask while working on their feet right by the huge lamp above the operating table. For many surgeries they'll also wear the lead apron thing as well to protect them for when x-rays need to be taken during the procedure. The surgeon(s) and team working with them to keep the patient safe and comfy during surgery, are bound to get warm with so many layers of PPE and whatnot

[@Fluffy-Fluffy]

​@@bradlayhughes6043they can give you an opioid for that. but keep that in mind when they add extra morphine on top, it might be a bit much. For me the shivering stopped after the opioid was injected, it was so much better.

[@gigitonsvajv]

I didn’t care not one bit. I cramped so bad during periods I was like thank god I’m going to be out of pain while asleep. Side note: after having a Cather during my C-section they took it out and the first time I had to go to the bathroom to pee i didn’t make it because the pain from surgery. I was so embarrassed. The very nice lady that came in to clean up the mess was so sweet. I kept telling her I am so sorry but I couldn’t get there fast enough. She said honey it’s not a big deal it’s to be expected. This was 26 years ago and I’ve never forgotten her.

[@Fluffy-Fluffy]

*catheter

[@gigitonsvajv]

@@Fluffy-Fluffy thanks. I didn’t catch that when I was typing. 😂

[@joleensoule2101]

Shit, I’ve had two babies. For each one, at least 20 people saw my hoo-hah, and half of them had their hands up in it. No shame in a hospital. They’ve seen it all.

[@natjean99]

How do you feel during this? I would feel super shy and weird about it, but I wonder.

[@joleensoule2101]

@@natjean99 I was at 5cm dilated for both babies when I got to the hospital. That’s about the time when you can’t talk through a contraction. For me, I was just in so much pain that it didn’t matter who was in the room. All shame kind of went out the window, and I just wanted to get those babies delivered.

[@kerryh3833]

I felt like after I had my kid, nothing seemed scary any more. People had seen my hoohah. I pooped during labour. And nurses saw my boobies out during feeding. What else is there to hide? 🤣

[@natjean99]

@@kerryh3833 woah that’s my biggest nightmare!!!!

[@natjean99]

@@kerryh3833 to be quite honest I’m not too worried about nurses and doctors seeing my hoohah during labor. But in reality I can’t even urinate let alone poo in front of anybody! I lock the heck outta bathroom doors! So pooing during labor absolutely terrifies me! 😅😂

[@bluestripes6037]

Aw, he seems so nice. Lotta hospital folk have been chilly in my real life experience, these social media ones are such a nice change. 😊

[@vm1776]

This past Spring, I had foot surgery and they told me to take everything off including underwear and put on the gown and grippy socks. They also told me that there was a backup in surgery so they wanted to get me ready on time but that I could be waiting hours but since they weren't sure if my dr was behind or all of them, they were getting everyone ready as if there was no problem. I left my underwear and pad on, thinking it's the foot and gonna bleed through if it's hours and then the nurse said, it's ok to wear it but the recommend that I wear the hospital mesh and their pads so that I'd still have mine to wear home no matter what happens in surgery. didn't think to mention it to the anestjologist since the nurses resolved the issue.

[@nikolpetrova8448]

Fr. Tell your doctors and nurses EVERYTHING that you think might interfere or have an effect on you treatment! We’d rather know too much than not enough and mess something up

[@mollyharrison6860]

As an new OR nurse, I’m already desensitized to genitalia. Don’t be embarrassed :) we aren’t even phased anymore!

[@ralucasimona6812]

I have lost my mother to cancer. And when i have to go to the hospital i usually tell to the nurses/doctors my whole medical history,i tell them all the simptome i have and i usually try to be very calm and precise in what i answer. Always they are happy that I'm ready for them so they don't have to make 100 questions,and that I don't care what sex my doctor is and that i will do exactly what they ask me to do. When you are ready the diagnosis will be easy to find for them. They need informations about you and your body to do their job. Much respect for every nurse and doctor and everyone who works in the medical field

[@Cheezclown]

I’m sorry for your loss

[@Evan-nf8ep]

So much respect for healthcare workers for being so kind as well as obviously intelligent enough to work in the field. It makes things so much better when you have a nice doctor, its made surgery and post surgery for me so amazing.

[@natasha1918]

I love this advice - side story, I had a stillbirth at 20 weeks and had to get a D&C after failed delivery of the placenta, the team was great and explained everything to me about the bleeding and how they’ll tidy up ect Then I had a further missed miscarriage of 3 weeks under 13 weeks and again unfortunately resulted in a D&C and again really fantastic health care team. I use to think it would be embarrassing but both experiences where super comfortable to wake up to, very clean and dressed ect , definitely worth being open about it

[@dawnshough3805]

I'm so sorry for your losses. God Bless you.

[@lucapermen3820]

Mom was transported to ER today, once she felt better she was saying how messed up she looked. I work as supervisor for public safety department and sometimes we are having a medical emergencies when people saying “oh I didn’t shave” or “I am sweating after gym”. Guys, I personally don’t care, my job to make sure you are okay till paramedics get there. Same with hospital workers, they don’t care about your look. Thank you all for your hard work ❤

[@elenamarie25]

I was on my period when I had my heart attack. Nurses were super awesome. They put me in a diaper for surgery. So much fun with all the blood thinners they were pumping into me! Lol

[@ginaperkins1088]

25 years ago I had my 2nd brain surgery and I started my period while I was in the ICU waiting to have another surgery and they had to go to Labor/Delivery to get me some rubber underwear and pads.😅😅

[@elizabethalderman8749]

I had a surgery when it was my time of the month. They had to put me under so I had to give a cup. My sample was BRIGHT RED for urology. The nurse who took it DID NOT RELAY that message so urology got a blood filled sample and concluded my kidneys must be failing or worse. 4 MALE student nurses and a new doctor came running to rush me into scanning and scared me and my dad half to death. I had to yell to be heard and the entire waiting ward collectively became dead silent. One old man burst out laughing because his wife scooted in to help my dad chew them out because “how could they embarrass that poor young thing”. That couple was so nice and when my doctor came to get me he apologized profusely. I was glad they were worried for me but I was so glad for the good company.

[@bluesaulytė]

My mom's geriatric client went number 2 in the bed side drawer, I had a teen throw up all over my lap ... period blood would never faze a healthcare professional - especially nurses and surgeons

[@grendelsmama2302]

You are a saint lol

[@marieagnus5817]

I just had a hip replacement surgery a week ago. It is the first major surgery i have had without bleeding profusely from my PCOS periods! What a relief, welcome Menopause!!!

[@nanciebrown4533]

Yup ! Menopause rocks ! My periods just STOPPED ! Don't have to shave any more as the hair under my arms and on my legs just STOPPED growing ! What's a hot flash ? I'm so lucky ! 🍀🍀

[@dorothywillms115]

I bled like crazy the day after they took my gallbladder out. Had my period in one day. No one warned me. Nurses were annoyed but I was astonished and in so much pain. I later learned my gynocologist had also snooped around without me knowing so I never went back to him again.That was 40 years ago. I still don’t know if that’s normal to have your period come 10 days early and be so intense and heavy. That was a tough one.

[@chincaglieria]

I appreciate a doctor being up front and relatable. These days it’s difficult to find them. Thank you

[@mirandawade3362]

Perfect timing! My boyfriend just had a full knee replacement. I was on mine that day. In the waiting room I had lots of time to wonder how mortifying that would be if our roles were switched.

[@ElviraSM]

STORYTIME! I'm a 16 year old kid who had 9 back surgeries for scoliosis. I remembered it was my last back surgery. Just so you know I was 15 at the time! My mom was in the room with me. I was laying on the bed until I began to notice some cramps down there. I thought it was because of me holding in my pee. (I was pretty nervous to go to the bathroom) little did I know. It was that time. I went into surgery and after 7 hours.. I wake up in the hospital room. And the doc told me.. "Congratulations! You finished your surgery AND you started!" I was confused at first and I said "started what?" They started to laugh a bit and SAID. "your period! You started while you were asleep!" I was so so SO EMBARRASSED THAT DAY. AND THE WORST PART.. I HAD TO GET UP TO CHANGE- IT WAS AWFUL! But- it's mother nature and you should never be ashamed of having it. Its what makes you perfect in every way. No matter how embarrassing it is 😅

[@chesneymigl4538]

Woah! Nine! I only had one, but wore a back brace most of my childhood. Probably 6 years or so.

[@dorothywillms115]

Oh you poor thing. My sister was 14 and developed a blood clot in her thigh. She was in for over 50 days. That was 50 years ago and she was one of the first ever done in Vancouver.

[@vickyalberts6716]

It’ll still be all over my legs and up my back. Some of us have heavy periods.

[@MedicalSecrets]

We clean it off it that happens

[@naomiemoore5725]

Yup, I was like that too. They cleaned me up nicely. I don't care who sees me when in a hospital, they are there to help us get well from whatever issue we may have. In my experience I have been really lucky and have had excellent female and male nurses. What really made a mess was when I was at work. I bled everywhere. One of the young staffers was embarrassed for me. I told her don't worry, it is natural and ok. One time I did have to go to the hospital because I was loosing too much blood.

[@loriwbahadur]

Doesn't that end get suction, too?!?

[@RG-hf4et]

@@MedicalSecrets But, doc, you don't understand. We females don't want to be cleaned off !

[@faithpearlgenied-a5517]

​@@RG-hf4etRight, it's a bit weird that they just clean you up in intimate areas without your knowledge 😬

[@maryannkom299]

Stress can do weird things. I have a fairly severe case of mixed auto immune disease and I’ve spent more than my fair share of times in the hospital. I used to get my period every time I was in the hospital, whether I just one or not.

[@jenliafm1180]

Oh this happened every time to me too! It had to be the stress because right before every surgery my period would start 😂😂

[@ravenID429]

Mine always seems to show up at airports lol

[@tinkeramma]

So true. I used to get my period every time I took my medically complex daughter to the hospital. 😂

[@Beka_Rex]

I have to warn everyone around me when going under anaesthesia, that when I wake up, I will 100% bawl like a baby and then pee the bed. Every. Damn. Time. 😂

[@myfirstnamemylastname2994]

Awww. Having someone tell me that and sounding so frustrated the way you do would make me feel so tender and protective toward them. I would feel determined to help you feel better about it. I'll bet most of your caregivers feel the same way.

[@Beka_Rex]

@@Anon-ed1bb no need for one since I’m awake when it happens. They just make sure there’s a pad under me

[@Beka_Rex]

@@myfirstnamemylastname2994 every nurse who’s looked after me have been absolutely amazing. It helps that I have a humour about it and make sure to try and laugh it off, but they are always so great and understanding. Makes it much less of an unpleasant situation. I very recently also learned that I don’t pee myself after deep sedation, but I do still cry like a baby once I’m awake, and start asking the drs and nurses for hugs 😂

[@grendelsmama2302]

Awwww poor puddin ❤

[@sheaholloway9537]

If you can afford it and are already on Nuvaring, put a new one in on the fourth week when your period usually is. Plan ahead, get the surgery period free. I did this for two major back surgeries. Kept pain, fuss, and muss down!

[@dorothywillms115]

I wish I’d known that when I got married 53 years ago. I would have enjoyed my honeymoon so much more.

[@cheesecakelasagna]

I had an appendix surgery and when I woke up after, realized they shaved some down there, I thought, "That's some clean shave! Nice." 😅

[@TheSleepSteward]

I've always had good experiences with doctors or nurses (for the most part) especially prior to a surgery. But one time, I don't know why, it was just horrific. It was the most pain I've ever been in, it was humiliating, it was dehumanizing and the paediatric nurse just did not care. It was horrible. And it's a paediatric nurse too so you'd think they'd care! But... That was just one real bad time. Every other person I've ever met in the paediatric unit has been an angel. Maybe sometimes a tough cookie but you can tell that they cared deep down 😅

[@N.Sardone]

Ohh boy! I have had to have 2 surgeries on my left shoulder. The first one was when I was 12. The second was about 14 months after. The second is when this happened. When I ‘came to’ the nurse was very nice. After a few minutes I realized how badly I had to go pee so she helped me up off the bed…. and…. what a mess. At that very moment I wished I could’ve melted into the floor! Mortified. But, she said it happens a lot more often than you think. I’m so glad my stepdad had gone to the cafe for snackages!

[@Victoria-uq8mf]

When i was 12 i had a back surgery and i didn't tell them i was on my period. Honestly i didn't think about it. When it was time for surgery they said all i could have on was the gown so i just put the gown on. I wish they had asked because it was embarrassing to find out later that they realized during surgery 🥴

[@elizaalmabuena]

Only got one male nurse that drew a blank when I mentioned I was on my period and needed a new pad (spent a few days in the hospital and had limited mobility). I let him know I could handle it so long as he helped me to/from the toilet and left a new pad within my reach, he went on ahead and was my toilet buddy just in case 🤣

[@end19981]

When I had a breast reduction I was so embarrassed but they gave me hospital underwear and a pad and hardly batted an eye. My nurses were so sweet

[@brattrox2939]

The amount of care you get from people in medicine regardless of what is going on with you is what makes doctors offices and hospitals a comfy place for me.

[@joebaby1975]

I had mine during my back surgery. I wore a diaper and they never said anything to me about it, so they must’ve been able to work around it.

[@ScarDragon]

i used to be embarrassed about so much, then had an emergency medical situation. at that moment, I didn't care who was in the room as long as they took the pain away. pretty sure medical staff have seen pretty much everything.

[@Seevawonderloaf]

So many healthcare professionals in the comments section saying they don’t care. You guys are the MVPs! There are unfortunately some who do care and say nasty things that make us worry. We need more people like y’all

[@natalyamoses3554]

I left my pad on and told the doctors and nurses when they took me to the OR. It was off when I woke up in recovery and I had those big pads on and more pads under me. That day taught me that they don’t mind things like that.

[@trichey1712]

Was going in for a dnc, the nurses were trying to help keep me covered as I moved beds. I didn’t really care if they saw anything, they were about to see everything.

[@spoonlessvalkyrie7514]

But props for them maintaining your dignity. 🙂

[@onepawatatime7925]

I've been on my period for three surgeries. Without fail every time the physical stress of the procedure stops my period in it's tracks. Like fight or flight mode where it shuts down everything you don't absolutely need. Then I just get my next period a little earlier. 🤷‍♀️

[@lenakohl2339]

It's weird. For most women it's the other way around. Stress starts the bleeding. It's more like "get rid of the lining, no chance for pregnancy". Bitte bodies are different.

[@Wendymarino]

I had a long corrective surgery after a large weight loss Rou N Y… did all the work at the gym and nutrition… had my period and had a tampon in for surgery… I spent 2 days in a concierge sweet for my follow up appt in Hollywood, FL. When the drugs wore off, I was bleeding, and I didn’t have a tampon in… thank you surgical team… so hard to be on both sides of the bed/gurney/stretcher…💕💕💕

[@PyrokittyKiarla]

This was very informative and interesting. I didn't realize it wasn't a big deal. The more you know~

[@loriwbahadur]

I was on the day of my hysterectomy! Happiest day of my life!

[@missbitchtou1]

Same here I found is sooooo ironic lol

[@SissyMchill1]

Omgosh I never told my anesthesiologist about that. Maybe the nurses? Thankfully I no longer have a uterus to have that problem. Oof I couldn’t imagine being 18 and having to tell that to the surgical team. Yes all y’all are professional. Im speaking for just a young girls mindset.

[@poisonivvsthecrohnmonster8288]

I knew I was due on the week of surgery. I was an inpatient and asked for meds to postpone it. It wasn’t a worry about during but I thought post hemicolectomy trying to deal with pads or tampons would be difficult. The dr left it to late for meds but thankfully aunty flo showed up early for one. I was glad because barely able to move additional personal hygiene would have messed me up.

[@madameregal7563]

I had surgery whilst on my period…the most embarrassing part was asking the elderly male volunteer that reminded me of my late grandfather if I could keep on my underwear and pad. I was really young, incredibly anxious, and I’d forgotten to ask the nurse. At my hospital in Canada, any above the waist surgery they’ll give you these weird mesh type panties and a big thick pad (no wings). It never hurts to ask, especially if it’s a heavy flow day, most nurses and volunteers are happy to help and keep you at ease in pre-op.

[@liviousyoung4911]

Love this video! Thank you again for normalizing. For us. Women, just another thing we'd have to feel less ashamed about ❤❤

[@amandagoldsbury8122]

I started my period the DAY BEFORE MY HYSTERECTOMY.🤦 And considering the various reasons I was in surgery, I can't imagine that was fun. 🤷

[@LilyCayton]

My right ovarie ruptured when I was 17 due to a felicular cyst and bc of it plus it was my time of the month I was bleeding like crazy like I thought I was going to bleed out but all of the staff on my case was so kind and comforting when it came time for me to have my surgery I was so embarrassed and scared but they made me feel so safe and I appreciate that team every day I love bc the hospital I went to before them the guy who saw me told my mom that he wasn’t going to do anything for me bc “he’s seen this before” dude though I was pushing for drugs and my mom tore him a new one and not to mention I was literally just at that hospital only minutes before for the same issue and the doctor Lisa who saw me found the cyst the size of a golf ball or a Clementine but she had just left for the night after she discharged me but I had to go back bc the moment we pulled back into our drive way I was screaming in pain all over again (thank you for coming to my Ted talk)

[@Souls-at-zer0]

“Omg im so sorry im on my period .. gross I know” Doctor : ..lady.. we are about to cut your stomach open and take parts of you out … I think your period is the least bloody thing here 😮‍💨”

[@dannydyerschocolatehumuncl2418]

What's gross about a period?

[@Brhidku]

@@dannydyerschocolatehumuncl2418probably the blood

[@nyadarkness]

​@@Brhidkunot to the surgeon lelz XD 😅

[@catpoke9557]

​@@dannydyerschocolatehumuncl2418Nothing really, I mean I guess it's slightly gross since it comes out of the genitals so it's going to be a bit dirty, but the inside of a human body is generally not very clean anyways so for a doctor it's not really gross

[@dorothywillms115]

Children,,,,,,get outta here,,,,,,,get off your phones,,,,,,,get some fresh air. Iam your gramma and l know your curious. You have a lifetime to discover gross things but please don’t learn it on the internet. You never know when Gramma comes around to check on you.

[@fionassimbwa8805]

God bless health workers who witness crazy details and take them as normal

[@serijas737]

I just wanted to thank you for being a doctor that actually cares!

[@heartandhope3792]

Thank you mate (in vid) just treating as normal thank you I don't need surgery but as a woman I instantly felt at ease thank you

[@Seevawonderloaf]

This is important bc if someone wears a tampon and goes into surgery, it still needs to be replaced within 5-7 hrs or it can get dangerous. For that reason maybe you will have to wear pads and mention it to the doc so they can have additional padding on the bench

[@sarahdoanpeace3623]

Oh the vanilla milkshake syringe 💉 God Bless Propiphol!! Signed, a 35 surgery Vet

[@hemiprice4016]

That shit burns like a mf'er I know cuz I had a dumbest anesthesiologist once forget the lidocaine. Now that's the first word out of my mouth when the anesthesiologist visits me.

[@jlbowles]

This was interesting. Never ever wondered about this but good to know thank you fine sir and OP!

[@evelynkirishko5407]

Yep. I was so uncomfortable having nothing but pads under me when I was bleeding from an ectopic pregnancy... but it was over quick. I had the best surgeon too, so kind and informative ❤

[@andreahickman]

Dr. K you explained that and it was so smooth! Thank you! I’ve never experienced that and now I’m beyond that age wise. The only time they had to put a pad on me was from a D&C and my hysterectomy.

[@MedicalSecrets]

Thank you for the kind comments! 🙏

[@Kay.in.FL.HI.SA.JP.OZ.NZ.RIO..]

Thanks, will do! I dont feel stressed by surgery; I just wonder why I always wake up floating in a pool of urine from head to toe! Is it too much IV fluids, stress or an anesthesia reaction causing this?

[@hem9483]

waht

[@Kay.in.FL.HI.SA.JP.OZ.NZ.RIO..]

@@hem9483 rewritten for clarification; just for you, lol! ♥

[@notanotherfuckingnikki]

It's because you're unconscious and can't wake up to go pee.

[@smugandsmarmy]

May all the deities bless you and keep you for sharing this with the world. ♥️

[@KitsuyuutsuR]

I remember when I was 19 (way back in 1992) I had my first surgery. It was on my knee and guess what decided to show up that morning 🤦🏻‍♀️ Because, you know, it would be early or late to surprise me all the time to say “happy birthday” or “merry Christmas” every year, evil thing that it was. Why wouldn’t it show up the morning of surgery? I told the nurse getting me ready because she told me to take off my underwear as well, which is when I said I couldn’t because my period showed up that morning. This caused an argument because she wanted me to use a tampon and I refused to use them because I didn’t like them and my flow was entirely too heavy for even the most absorbent tampon. She finally sighed and told me I was just going to have to have a pad between my legs. How uncomfortable, especially when they didn’t come to get me for several hours! And when I woke up in recovery with dozens of other patients, I got really nasty when they kept wanting to wait to take me back to my room. I mean REALLY nasty, to the point that they finally did what I asked to get me the hell out of there so I wouldn’t disturb other people. All I wanted was to get my underwear, that was all. To be honest, I don’t know why they couldn’t give me the throw away underwear they give pregnant women after they have a baby. At least I would have felt more secure that the pad was going to stay in place. I was a 19 year old girl, very self conscious. What did they expect?! Now I’m old, I lost my ovaries 16 years ago, so my period isn’t an issue. I’ve had a lot of surgeries, had 2 kids… I have no shame anymore 😂

[@dorothywillms115]

I was 32. It was July 29th I think. Princess Diana’s wedding and that gall bladder surgery was horrendous. They split me diagonally across my body and I never had a figure again,,,,,and that was just the start. Gosh I’ve left my stories down below. It never ends does it. It’s amazing we are still alive. I’m 75 now and tonight we sat here pondering why we have so few friends. Then we began to count,,,,,,,19 friends have died in my lifetime!!!!!!! Don’t depend on doctors,,,,they have a PRACTICE.

[@karmalarmalooski4402]

I had a foreign object removed from my foot in my early twenties about 10 years ago. I was on my period and asked if I could keep my underwear on. Also, I just hated the idea of being completely naked under the gown. They allowed me to.. Is it likely they just said that to make me more comfortable and took them off after I was under?

[@honey3519]

No , Dr,s don't lie to there patients,,!!!!

[@suzannerodriguez8600]

​@@honey3519, please tell me you were being facetious!

[@annacbrown1986]

If the underwear is made from cotton it should be fine. At least that's what I was told

[@xSoSurreal]

“So it doesn’t leave a big mess” 💀💀

[@kiamccoy7372]

Right! 🤦🏽‍♀️ 😂

[@TheSusieTom]

Yeah, sorry for inconvenience...😊

[@eggy3394]

what? i mean it would leave a big mess, hes just encouraging you to tell your doc

[@msmaam374]

Tffffffff

[@m.mackay]

wait what’s wrong w his wording?

[@jessicamenley5428]

I started during surgery woke up with maternity underwear and a pad thanks to the nurse

[@kaitlinwilson5439]

I was worried about this exact thing when I had to have a stent put in my heart last year. Things took a wrong turn so I had two more surgeries and I felt so awful for my poor ICU nurse because he had to help me clean up and change every time when my period hit. He was honestly such a blessing during it all.

[@vstormfelt5329]

Also, if you're an intersex dude and you're bleeding the gender to condition mismatch is gonna be the biggest communication barrier, everything else is standard operational procedure. They shouldn't have to dress your body differently unless the operation is on the area in question. Recently had a endo-colonoscopy and there were no comments except that I was a good anesthesia patient and it was good I let them know ahead of time I was a ginger since my hair is dyed and that's probably why things went so smoothly. Bottom line your gender shouldn't be getting you different treatment in the OR even if you're a Shiny like me.

[@titaniumvulpes]

As a different kind of man that bleeds, I'm happy to say I also recently had an endo-colonoscopy and got no untoward comments, even stuck in a red state! They were more worried about my nose ring catching on the nasal cannula lmao

[@heidi5462]

Good to know..😅

[@oak_meadow9533]

I love him waving a syringe full of Penguin Milk around! 😂😅😊 Bless you gas passer!

[@CowboyLikeMegan]

I was on my period for a recent oophorectomy. That surgical team was so hardcore lol they cleaned me up in postop and were changing my pad out and everything, they really didn’t care at all. I was very thankful for them.

[@bconsilio3764]

I’m having surgery soon. Im intermittently continent , is this something I should share.

[@eacwtc97]

You should. Anesthesia may make your muscles relax, which may impact your concern. They’ll work with you.

[@mapletree8086]

Yea, they’ve seen people at their literal worst. I’m sure they’re probably thinking about what’s for dinner

[@bconsilio3764]

Thank you so much.

[@Jennifer-gr7hn]

you said lunch earlier....we're not thinking about food all the time. We're usually wiped out and looking forward to shower and sleep.@@mapletree8086

[@Jennifer-gr7hn]

Firstly, I'm sorry to hear :( And that no one really said that :( Yes dear one, always good to share it all. They will either insert a catheter or like he said, extra pads and you are cleaned up after. Depending on where you are having surgery, that matters too. I will pray all goes well if you really need the surgery.

[@ellareignwithsirlampsot]

Its still so embarrassing

[@julievanderleest]

I’ve had close to 30 surgeries and I’ve never been on a period during them. I’m thankful for that! Honestly the anticipation and stress of the surgery threw.me off the regular cycle.

[@tamberjune]

Seriously. You're doing great to just give us info so we're less stressed

[@JurassicGlitchy]

Oh my, I’d still be SO embarrassed about that 😬 Edit: I didn’t like the emoji I initially chose

[@MedicalSecrets]

Totally reasonable... If it's any consolation we see it all the time and have ZERO problem, seriously

[@RG-hf4et]

I'd be mortified. I'm in my 60's so I've been through menopause. Now I worry about peeing -a lot!!! I don't just trickle, I pee often and a lot each time. Mortifying.

[@coTMH14571]

Why aren’t tampons permitted? I was told when I had my appendectomy that we couldn’t wear a tampon. Is this standard protocol? If so why what a tampon not be allowed as long as it wouldn’t be in the way of what is being addressed surgically?

[@MedicalSecrets]

I have some videos on this! Infection control is one consideration, like if it gets forgotten that it's in there for days on end (TSS)

[@Jennifer-gr7hn]

MAJOR source of infection. A tampon shouldn't be used at all in my professional and logical opinion. Blood is a breeding ground for infections since it's warm and bacterial loving. Sooooo, pre-op, op, and through post op is usually well over 2 hours. Bad idea. Better, safer, healthier to just have humility.

[@Czetli2]

A friend of mine was going in for a hip & elbow surgery. She was very close to her orthopedic surgeon as she had seen him for 20+ yrs. She used a tampon even though they told her not to. She put a tiny note on the string that said "Do not pull" and then tucked the string up out of the way. She told me since we both worked for the hospital. I worked in therapy and she was a nurse. After my work day was over, I spent the night with her because she didn't trust the nurses to help her out of bed onto the bedside commode. She only wanted me b/c I worked with most ortho surgery pts to get in/out of bed, etc and I was very gentle.

[@sarahtonin07]

I had to go to the ER for the first time a year or so ago for bad period cramps. I'm not shy about that stuff, it's just biology. But when I told the tech that came in for something specific, I mentioned it, he looked at me with a slightly disgusted face, and said he didn't need to know that. IT WAS RUDE. HOWEVER, not everyone is like this in the healthcare field. Just tell them, and know that medical 'professionals' like that are freaking immature if they can't have decent bedside manner about it.

[@JC-bq3vd]

See I would be terrified of a man seeing me for personal reasons ( they being I'm a victim of rape and child molestation for alot of years I would have a panic attack in this situation

[@nono-fb8tr]

They will give you anti anxiety meds that will immediately stop that panic attack and make you wonder why you even worried, source have experienced it

[@RG-hf4et]

This is something that most people don't think about -ptsd- after rape trauma but they should.

[@dawnshough3805]

You should definitely tell your surgeon & the anesthesiologist about your history. If they are decent people, they will ask you what you need to feel comfortable & safe. I'm so sorry you had that experience as a child. God Bless you.

[@carolinehampton1408]

So sorry about your past experiences

[@ravenID429]

You’d be under anesthesia

[@Hello.12]

Thanks! if you see this, know u are strong and loved! Jesus loves u no matter what ur past looks like. Jesus loves u and I do too. Have a great day :))

[@inspiringhumanpotential]

❤❤❤ thank you for the short, I would have never thought about this.

[@theresaferguson6472]

Why not make this question a part of the pre-op interview. Patients are scared and may not know what will happen.

[@dorothywillms115]

EXACTLY. I recently asked about Ozempic for weight loss and was told it was a good idea. It had just come out and no one told me as a diabetic that I should go off Metformin. Well WOW have I been sick. My doc couldn’t figure things out but he has 3000 patients. I figured this out from Dr. Google. I dread telling my doc next week. You MUST always know about side effects. Last spring I went to keep my friend company in the chemo room and found her unresponsive. The nurses said they thought she was sleeping for 2 hours and waiting for her son. They managed to revive her but she choked to death on some toast 2 days later. I sat a long time all alone till they asked me if I’d let her die. I said if she were MY relative I would say yes. They all thought I was related and never thought of asking me in the first place. So yep I’ve had some awful experiences. My husband had hernia surgery last week. I wasn’t allowed to go along to any pre op appointments and never met the surgeon. There were no post op instructions and when he turned black and blue on Christmas Day we were worried. Thank goodness for Dr. Google again. It saved us a trip to the ER 20 miles away on icy roads. He is just fine. These kind of things make you pretty uneasy when you live in a remote area. Even if you don’t .

[@DecibelleKaos]

I want to cry. “…so it doesn’t leave a BIG MESS…” isn’t very err…compassionate, it’s REALLY NOT LIKE WE HAVE A CHOICE…

[@LiliS319]

Now come on, it is compassionate. I'd say"mess" is even a euphemism for the murder scene we would be leaving on the sheets.

[@Brhidku]

you do have a choice to tell them so it doesn’t leave a big mess, sure you don’t choose to have periods no one’s saying that but does that mean you should just ignore it?

[@ravenID429]

Uh…why?? It is a mess, why are you getting defensive and *crying* over this? If you shat yourself during surgery it would be a big mess too, he’s not sHaMiNG you for it that’s literally what the video is about lmao