Millions of people in the United States undergo surgery every year, and many of them are women. The reality is that even if a woman isn't undergoing a surgical procedure, she is likely acting as counselor or caregiver for someone who is. Facing surgery can be stressful. But with careful planning and inquiring about all of your options, you can relieve your anxieties, reduce possible complications and post-surgical pain, and pave the way for getting back to normal as quickly as possible after surgery—you can redefine your recovery.

Here are some basic tools and information to help you: