Did you know that the same nitrous oxide (laughing gas) from your dentist’s office can be used in other medical settings, including gynecology? Laughing gas has a long history 一 it was discovered in 1771 一 and was first used for childbirth in 1881.
While nitrous oxide remains a safe and effective pain-relieving option, technology has made administration methods much easier.
Our compassionate and expert team here at OBGYN Westside, PLLC, brings this centuries-old practice of using laughing gas to women on the Upper West Side of New York City with Pro-Nox™ 一 a safe, valve inhalation system that only delivers nitrous oxide when you breathe in through the tube.
There are many reasons why you should consider using Pro-Nox at the gynecologist. Here’s what you need to know, courtesy of our board-certified obstetricians and gynecologists.
Pro-Nox can help make you more comfortable during painful procedures, including intrauterine devices (IUD) insertion, office hysterscopy, and biopsies.
An IUD is a type of birth control that has a high protection rate (99%) for 5-10 years with no upkeep or maintenance required from you. The T-shaped device is placed through your cervix and into your uterus. While this is performed in-office and is relatively quick, the process can be uncomfortable for many women. Cramping is common afterward.
A hysterocopy is another procedure that may cause discomfort, and Pro-Nox can help you relax. You may need a hysteroscopy if you have a polyp or if you have unexplained bleeding between periods.
A biopsy is a procedure that takes a small tissue sample to examine for signs of cancer or other conditions. For example, you might need an endometrial biopsy to help determine the cause of irregular bleeding. Because the tissue removal can be uncomfortable and cause cramping, inhaling nitrous oxide can deliver quick pain relief.
You don’t need to undergo a procedure to benefit from nitrous oxide. Some women may benefit from Pro-Nox during exams too. This is especially true if you experience pain during pelvic exams or Pap smears, or if you have a sensitive cervix.
Just like with laughing gas at the dentist, laughing gas can also help women who feel anxious about pelvic exams. Laughing gas slows down your nervous system so you’re more relaxed and less jittery.
When you receive laughing gas at the dentist, a nasal mask fits over your nose and you breathe in the gas. Pro-Nox delivers the same nitrous oxide but without the nasal mask. Pro-Nox is patient-administered, which means you’re in control of when you inhale the gas and when you take a break.
The gas is a mixture of 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen, and after a few easy breaths, you feel relief. The device only administers nitrous oxide when you inhale, thanks to special valves.
Whether you’re interested in Pro-Nox for an IUD insertion or during another procedure, know that your comfort and safety are always our priority. To learn more about Pro-Nox at our office, give us a call today or book your appointment online.
