Local anesthesia and intravenous sedation:

• A numbing medicine is injected into the cervix (the opening of the woman's womb).
• It takes 5-10 minutes to take effect.
• It is similar to the medication we need at the dentist's office.
• The effects can last about one hour.
• An intravenous pain reliever and anti-anxiety medication are given before surgery.
• Their effect is immediate.

General anesthesia:

• This is rarely required and can be arranged after consultation with the doctor.
• It is recommended for patients who have medical or anatomical conditions that require close monitoring by an anesthesiologist.

Intra-muscular injection:

• Intramuscular injections of pain relievers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can be given either alone or in combination with local anesthesia and intravenous sedations.
• These are very potent medications that make cramps disappear.
• They are not narcotics and can be given to patients who have many cramps after the procedure.
• They can also be given half hour to an hour prior to surgery.