For instance, I knew to expect some bleeding following surgery, what I didn't expect was to have mucous stooling. I also didn't expect that I would sometimes soil myself when I had no urge to use the bathroom. Granted, I'm only 11 days post surgery so this may all be normal, but I didn't know this!
So, what was your most surprising symptom?
Cindy
Hi Cindy, I think the tiredness and the length of time it akes to heal surprised me the most. I thought without an incision in my abdomen I would be up and around in no time. I didn't know what to expect. The buttock ache was a surprise. I didn't get any info on any symptoms from the hospital. I am 13 days post op and feeling better each day, I think. Hope your recovery goes well.
the itching (i suppose it should be a good sign of all the stiches healing etc) but wow the itching drives me crazy 
The tiredness. I remember waking up and thinking that I would have enough energy to spend the day laying on the couch with my family. Then I performed the Herculean feats of going to the toilet and brushing my teeth. After all that work I was exhausted and had to lay down and take a nap.
a lots of things that I have read here over the months really helped prepare me, though, and I am very grateful for it.