It's OK to be scared. It's also OK to tell the doctors and nurses that you're scared. There are a lot of things they can do to make it easier for you. There's no reason to "tough it out." These days, there's hardly ever any reason for a patient to experience any pain at all.

I have had several operations. I recall being very scared the first time. A strange thing happened when I got to the hospital. The medical staff were so professional and helpful, that I forgot about being scared. The worst part is when apprehension builds and you have nothing to do but worry about it. Once you get into the hospital and get started, you're too busy to be scared. They can even give you a pill before they do anything else that will calm you.

My best advice is to:
1. Try to not think about it until you have to.
2. TELL THE NURSE YOU'RE SCARED. There's a lot they can do to help.
3. Make sure there is someone there with you that you know and trust, who will help keep you calm.
4. Relax. It won't last long.

I hope this helps.