If you’re preparing for an upcoming vaginoplasty or vulvoplasty, you’ll definitely want to keep reading! This list has been developed over the years from discussions with gender-affirming surgeons, fellow pelvic floor physical therapists, and most importantly – folks just like you! I’ve listened to people with lived experience who can attest to what supplies were necessary for recovery, along with some bonus items for comfort or convenience!
In Your Hospital Bag:
- Loose, comfy clothing. Consider dresses, skirts or pants with an elastic waistband. Hospitals are notoriously cold, so pack cozy options!
- Oversized undies that you’re okay with staining. (Mesh postpartum underwear are great for the early recovery period, and these often have a sleeve for an ice pack!)
- Grippy socks, shoes, or slippers you can easily slip on and off
- An extra long phone charger
- Ear plugs and eye mask to help you get some sleep in the bright and loud environment of the hospital
- Your favorite snacks
- Reacher to grab items that are too far away
- Relaxing entertainment like books, crafts, etc.
- Scratcher for itches you can’t easily reach
- Small caddy to keep your belongings organized on your hospital bedside table
- Your favorite pillow, blanket, or stuffy
- U-shaped nursing pillow: Folks are commonly told to use a donut pillow to alleviate pressure on the vulvar tissue as it heals. However, my patients have found that a Boppy pillow is much more comfortable. From a pelvic PT standpoint, I greatly prefer the nursing pillow because surface pressure is better distributed while also protecting the surgical site.
The Wound Care & Pain Management Basics:
- Ice packs
- Maxi pads
- Non-woven gauze 4×4”
- Fragrance free wipes
- Chux pads
- Ointment or cream recommended by your surgeon
- Thermometer to monitor for fever, which is a sign of potential infection
- Douching supplies – once again, refer to your surgeon’s protocol for what (typically diluted vinegar) to douche with and how often
Toileting:
- Peri-bottle to gently clean the perineal area without needing to wipe sensitive, healing tissues
- Squatty potty or stool to elevate your feet for optimal positioning when having a bowel movement
- Stool softeners and a water bottle to help you avoid constipation
Your Dilation Station:
- Medical-grade dilators! Your surgical team will most likely provide you with a dilator set because they are such a critical tool for vaginoplasty recovery. If your surgeon doesn’t supply your dilators, I highly recommend the GRS Pelvic Trainers from Soul Source. Every detail of these dilators was made with your recovery in mind – from the length, internal rigidity, soft outer material, shape, and dot markers to help you track depth.
- A hand-held mirror or countertop mirror to check on your healing tissue and view dilator insertion
- Plenty of gentle, water-based lube! My preferred is Slippery Stuff, or your surgeon may have a recommended brand. Look for products free from parabens, glycerin, and fragrance.
- Bonus: A small, multishelved cart on wheels is one helpful way to keep all of your wound care and dilation supplies organized and easily accessible
Ready to feel fully supported in your recovery?
Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you want to prepare your body before surgery, troubleshoot dilation challenges, manage scar tissue, or guide your pelvic floor toward long-term health, I’m here to help. Schedule a discovery call with us today, and let’s build your personalized plan together!
