OMG...if you have no painkillers the pain is definitely normal!

It was over a week before I could start cutting down.

I used extra-strength Tylenol at first, then ibuprofen as that helps inflammation. (Drink lots of water and get fibre, as Tylenol can cause constipation.
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Getting out of bed...try this(was taught in hospital):

1. Roll onto your side.

2. Use your arm that you are lying on to push you up to a sitting position.

3. When your feet touch the floor, shift forward a bit if you need to to get to the edge of the bed.

4. Use your LEGS to push you into a standing position, with your arms behind you on the bed starting you up.

This will be more comfy.

Kirsten - does the hospital have a social worker? Or does your doctor know one? I am just hoping in-home help would be available for people who are on their own, covered by your insurance. Heck, you are paying their salaries! Ask for this.

ALSO: Ask your doctor about lifting restrictions. Your groceries may be over that limit. Also...the inside dissolving stitches take 3 weeks to start dissolving...so you have to allow as MUCH healing as possible in the first 3 weeks!

If your grocery store delivers, it might cost a bit more - but you don't want to risk another surgery!

Good luck tomorrow!