Comfort option
Nitrous oxide and oxygen analgesia
Dr. Jennifer Gulick offers nitrous oxide sedation to help minimize anxiety and discomfort during certain office procedures.
Pain management for short, minimally invasive procedures
Ask your healthcare provider whether nitrous oxide can be used during your procedure.
What is nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective anxiolytic and analgesic agent mixed with oxygen. It may be used during procedures and treatments to help you feel more comfortable.
How does it work?
The nitrous oxide and oxygen analgesia system delivers a mixture inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask. You breathe normally through your mouth and control self-administration. Effects usually begin within a few minutes and generally wear off within 5–10 minutes after the last inhalation.
Will it put me to sleep?
No. The nitrous oxide and oxygen ratio used for this service is not intended to provide anesthesia. You remain awake, able to hear, and able to respond to directions from the care team.
How might I feel?
Many patients report feeling relaxed or that their arms and legs feel light. Some experience tingling, a floating or sinking sensation, or temporary giggliness. Your voice may temporarily change during administration.
How quickly does it take effect?
For most patients, calming effects are felt within a minute or two, or after a few deep inhalation and exhalation cycles. Effects vary by patient. Once you stop inhaling the mixture, you generally begin returning to normal within 5–10 minutes.
Can I drive home afterward?
Whether you can drive depends on the procedure performed and any other medications you receive. Nitrous oxide and oxygen on their own generally clear within minutes; your provider will advise you based on your complete care and discharge criteria.
Does it eliminate pain?
No. Nitrous oxide does not replace a local anesthetic when one is needed, and it is not intended for extremely painful procedures. Its purpose is to help take the edge off, support relaxation, and reduce anxiety.
Safety and possible side effects
Nitrous oxide has a long-standing safety record. With this service, you remain conscious, responsive, and breathing normally on your own. Side effects are usually minimal; some patients may experience dizziness or nausea. If you do not like how you feel, stop inhaling the mixture and breathe room air—this should quickly reverse the effect.
Procedures that may be eligible
- IUD insertion or removal
- Colposcopy
- Cervical biopsy or cervical polyp removal
- Uterine (endometrial) biopsy
- Vaginal or vulvar biopsy
- Incision and drainage of an abscess
- Wound care or dressing changes
- Pelvic examination or Pap smear
- Sutures
Benefits and advantages
- Provides comfort and may reduce anxiety
- Self-administered by the patient
- Fast acting with a quick recovery
- An alternative to oral medications and opioids
Insurance and cost
The practice's existing website lists nitrous oxide and oxygen analgesia as an add-on service that is not currently covered by insurance, with a $125 fee due at the time of service. Please confirm the current fee and coverage with the office before your appointment.
Questions?
Call the office at 214-618-2802 to discuss whether nitrous oxide is appropriate for your procedure.
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