Nitrous Oxide Sedation
Your Comfort, Your Control: In-Office Nitrous Oxide Sedation
We understand that certain OB/GYN procedures—like IUD insertions, biopsies, or colposcopies—can cause anxiety or physical discomfort. To make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible, our practice offers in-office nitrous oxide sedation.
Commonly known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a safe, fast-acting gas that you breathe in through a small mask during your procedure. It does not put you to sleep. Instead, it creates a calming, relaxed sensation that helps minimize discomfort and ease your nerves in seconds.
The biggest benefit? You are in complete control. You hold the mask and breathe it in as needed. Because the gas leaves your body entirely within 3 to 5 minutes after you stop inhaling it, you can safely drive yourself home and get right back to your busy day with zero lingering grogginess.
Nitrous Oxide Sedation: What to Expect
What is nitrous oxide sedation?
It is a safe, effective gas that you breathe in through a small mask to help you relax during your procedure. Often called “laughing gas,” it quickly reduces both anxiety and the perception of discomfort.
How does it feel?
Within a few breaths, you will likely feel lightheaded, relaxed, or a warm tingling sensation. You will remain fully awake, aware, and able to speak with your doctor the entire time. It does not put you to sleep; it simply makes you feel calm and comfortable.
What procedures can I use it for?
We offer nitrous oxide for various in-office procedures that can cause anxiety or physical discomfort, including but not limited to:
- IUD insertions or removals
- Endometrial biopsies
- Colposcopies
- LEEP procedures
- Hysteroscopies
How fast does it wear off? Can I drive home?
One of the biggest benefits of nitrous oxide is how fast it leaves your system. Once you stop breathing the gas, the effects completely disappear within 3 to 5 minutes. Because there is no lingering grogginess, you can safely drive yourself home and return to your normal daily activities immediately.
How is this different from taking a prescription pill before my visit?
Prescription anxiety or pain medications (like Valium or narcotics) take a long time to kick in, stay in your system for hours, and require you to bring a designated driver. Nitrous oxide gives you instant relief that clears out immediately, giving you total independence.
Does my health insurance cover it?
Health insurance plans consider nitrous oxide for in-office procedures an “elective comfort option” and do not cover it. We offer this service for a transparent, flat out-of-pocket fee of $150 due at the time of your appointment.
This cost is in addition to your procedure fees.
How do I request it for my upcoming procedure?
Simply let our scheduling team or your medical assistant know that you would like to add nitrous oxide to your comfort plan before your scheduled procedure.
Visitation Policy
- Effective 9/15/2022, Masks are highly encouraged, but not mandatory.
- If you are experiencing any flu/cold/COVID like symptoms, you will be required to wear a mask.
- At this time, we are only allowing ONE ADULT to attend the appointment with the patient. We are not allowing anyone under the age of 18
Please note: If you bring more than one visitor or if you bring a visitor under the age of 18, they may be asked to wait outside of the waiting room or you may be asked to reschedule your appointment
Late Arrival Policy
At WHA, we strive to provide the highest quality care and respect every patient’s time. To help us maintain an efficient schedule and ensure that you receive the full benefit of your visit, we kindly ask that all patients arrive at least 15 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment time.
Please note:
- If you arrive late, we might not be able to see you and will help you reschedule for another time.
- Our providers have surgeries or procedures scheduled before or after clinic hours.
- Emergency surgeries or childbirths may arise unexpectedly and require them to leave the office
- In rare instances, these circumstances may require us to adjust or reschedule appointments.
- The 8:30 am and 1:30 pm booking times DO NOT have to arrive early to their appointment.
We appreciate your patience and understanding in these situations. Thank you for helping us maintain a smooth and timely schedule so we can continue delivering excellent care to all of our patients.
