All patients undergoing conscious sedation must have a ride home with a trusted person. Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) or taxis are not permitted after sedation. If transportation is a concern, contact the clinic in advance for assistance.
Conscious Sedation
What Is Conscious Sedation?
Conscious sedation, sometimes called twilight sedation, is a combination of medications used to help patients feel relaxed, comfortable, and less anxious during outpatient procedures like IUD placement/removal, hysteroscopy, and surgical abortion (vacuum aspiration).
This method typically includes:
- A local anesthetic to block pain
- A sedative to promote relaxation
Sedation may be given orally or through an IV, depending on your care plan. Patients remain awake but calm and may feel drowsy during the procedure.
Do I Need Conscious Sedation for a Surgical Abortion?
A surgical abortion can cause moderate to strong cramping, but every patient’s experience is different.
Factors that may affect discomfort include:
- Individual pain tolerance
- Gestational age of the pregnancy
- Personal or medical factors
Your Options
- Surgical abortion can be performed without sedation
- All patients receive local anesthesia and ibuprofen
- Conscious sedation is optional, but often chosen to reduce:
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Procedure-related discomfort
If you choose sedation, you will need a trusted person to drive you home, as your reaction time may be impaired for several hours.
How Conscious Sedation Works
Conscious sedation is considered a minimal to moderate level of sedation.
During conscious sedation, you will:
- Remain awake and responsive
- Feel relaxed and possibly drowsy
- Still be able to breathe on your own
- Experience reduced pain and anxiety
Compared to Deep Sedation (Anesthesia)
- Conscious sedation: You are awake and recover quickly
- Deep sedation (general anesthesia): You are fully asleep and require advanced monitoring
Deep sedation is not used in our clinic setting, as it is not appropriate for in-office procedures.
Benefits of Conscious Sedation for Abortion Care
Patients who choose conscious sedation may experience:
- Less anxiety during the procedure
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- A more relaxed overall experience
- Quick and safe recovery
Vital signs (heart rate, breathing, blood pressure) are closely monitored throughout your procedure.
Preparing for Conscious Sedation
Before your procedure, your doctor will:
- Review your medical history
- Confirm any medication allergies
- Discuss current medications and substance use
- Provide instructions regarding:
- Eating and drinking
- Smoking
- Medication adjustments
Your care team ensures sedation is safe and tailored to you.
What Happens During the Procedure?
- The sedative is given before the procedure begins
- You will start to feel calm or slightly sleepy
- You will remain awake but comfortable
- You may still feel some sensations, but discomfort is reduced
During the procedure:
- Oxygen may be provided if needed
- Your vital signs are continuously monitored
- Additional medications may be given to keep you comfortable
Recovery After Conscious Sedation
Sedation effects usually wear off fairly quickly, but:
- You may feel sleepy or groggy afterward
- You may have minor memory gaps about the procedure
- You must have a ride home with a trusted person
Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) or taxis are not permitted after sedation. If transportation is a concern, contact the clinic in advance for assistance.
Possible Side Effects of Conscious Sedation
Side effects are typically mild and temporary. They may include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Short-term memory loss of the procedure
Choosing conscious sedation
We strive to be honest and supportive about costs and inclusions for each procedure. We factor the cost of sedation into our pricing to make conscious sedation options accessible and help patients make an informed decision about what’s best for them.