To bring or not to Bring - Heating Pad

[Kimsterama]

Hi,
I'm starting to think about packing for the hospital and I want to pack light. I'm going to Mexico for the surgery for that reason is why I want to pack light. So my question to those who have been there, do I pack or not pack a heating pad for the pain right after gastric sleeve surgery? I have two kinds, one that goes in the microwave and one that plugs in the wall. So if it is a must have, which one do I bring? Also, what are must have packs that you can think of for the hospital. So far I'm bringing a book, protein shakes and am undecided on the heating pad.

Thanks in Advance!

[Christie13]

My heating pad made a huge difference but I did not go to Mexico so I don't know what the outlet/microwave situation is there. If you can take it, I would recommend it.

[Tamera2]

I brought my electric heating pad with me to Mexico and it made a big difference. You shouldn't need the protein shakes with you because Before and after surgery you will be on Clear liquids until week 2 unless your surgeon is different. I would clarify with them. Chances of you tolerating them before week two is low. Wish you safe travels to Mexico and hope your surgery goes good. I had a great experience when I went to Mexico.

[A Fairly Odd Panda]

I was told not to bring -anything- into the hospital. They would and did provide everything I needed. I would recommend against the protein shakes! I have never heard of anyone drinking those immediately post-op. You likely will be on sips of water/clear broth/SF jello during your stay. Protein shakes are usually the next phase after being cleared by the surgeon. They are just too heavy. As far as the heating pad, I suppose it isn't a bad idea, but I also had my surgery in the states and not in Mexico, so I cannot vouch for what they provide. A book is an excellent idea though.

GOOD LUCK!

[Sarcastic_Bard]

I didn't bring a heating pad to the hospital, but after surgery when I said I might be more comfortable sleeping with one, a nurse brought me a heating pad right away. It really did help.

[Sammih]

What exactly is the heating pad for? Do you put it over your belly? Does it help with pain? Muscle spasms? I'm clueless.
There's so much that Dr's forget to mention to you. LOL. I had a uterine fibroid embolization a few years ago and immediately following the procedure your uterus contracts as though you're in labor. HELLO! Talk about pain! It would have been nice to know what to expect before hand.
I want to also be prepared. Better to have it and not need it than need and not have.

[GigiUSA]

I brought my heating pad to Mexico and used it when I got back to the hotel the day after surgery. It felt great to sleep with at night.

This is the plug in kind with an extension cord. xo

[Sarcastic_Bard]

I used a heating pad on my shoulder where the gas pains were worst. I also used another one against my ribs and left side incisions for when I was wanting to lean on my left side to be more comfortable (the biggest incision where they pulled the stomach part out was on my left side so that side hurt worse). By the next day I didn't need a heating pad at all.