May 4, 2020 In Pain, Pelvic Floor, Treatment By FloridaUrogyn

Fearful about pelvic exams and procedures? Ask us about nitrous oxide.

nitrous oxide

Many women are calm and confident when it comes to office urinary and gynecological exams and procedures.  Our office is designed to care for women in a private and comfortable environment, our doctors have specialized training to treat you, and our staff members choose to work in this setting because they are sensitive and caring.

Other women, however, may feel anxious and fear pain when it comes to their gynecological care.  They may avoid necessary treatments which may improve their life.  Nitrous oxide/oxygen sedation is a safe and effective office sedative that may calm fears, and produce a sense of well-being and relaxation.  Sometimes it can produce a feeling of giddiness, and therefore, has been nicknamed “laughing gas.” 

Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases.  A mask is fitted over the nose, and patients inhale the gases.  The gas is eliminated by exhalation and has no lingering effects.  Most patients can drive themselves home afterward and immediately return to normal activities.  Nitrous oxide sedation is extremely safe and has been used for dental and medical procedures for approximately 100 years.  It is well-tolerated, reversible, and non-allergenic.  You remain fully conscious and capable of responding to requests.  Nitrous oxide can be combined with local anesthetics for further pain control. 

Most patients have had experience with nitrous sedation during dental procedures.  It has a long term history of safe use in pregnancy and labor in Europe and has been increasing and effectively used in the United States over the last 30 years for deliveries instead of epidurals.  Nitrous oxide has been studied for gynecological procedures performed in the operating room versus the office and was found to have a favorable safety and side effect profile.

Patients may choose to have nitrous sedation in our office for a variety of reasons including: 

  • Less anxiety and pain
  • Avoiding intravenous sedation
  • Ability to drive themselves home
  • Less absence from work
  • Avoiding higher costs (co-pays and deductibles) of outpatient surgery centers and anesthesia

Ask us if you are a candidate for nitrous oxide sedation for your office exam or procedure.