Your anaestheticoptions

You might like to ask to meet with the anaesthetist before the procedure

If you’re having spinal or general anaesthetic, ask your gynaecologist if you can meet with your anaesthetist before the day of your procedure. This way you won’t be hurried or stressed, and can be involved in the planning.

Your anaesthetist is responsible for your anaesthesia and wellbeing during the procedure and any post-procedure pain relief.

Types of anaesthesia

Sometimes, a diagnostic D&C can be done in your doctor’s rooms, using only local anaesthetic to the cervix. Most treatment procedures are performed in a day surgery or hospital where spinal anaesthetic, general anaesthetic or IV sedation can be used.

Local anaesthetic

For a diagnostic D&C, your surgeon can inject local anaesthetic into your cervix to reduce pain and sensation.

Spinal anaesthetic

This is an injection of local anaesthetic into your back. It makes part of your body go numb so you feel no pain during your operation. You stay conscious during the procedure. If you’re worried about being awake during your procedure you can also have sedation.

General anaesthetic

With general anaesthetic you’ll be unconscious for your procedure and a tube will be inserted into your throat to help you breathe. If you’re smoker, overweight or have significant health conditions, there are increased risks associated with general anaesthesia.

Sedation

Light sedation will make you feel relaxed, while deeper sedation will most likely make you go to sleep so you’re unlikely to remember much or anything that happens during the procedure.

Print this page to take when you meet with your gynaecologist and anaesthetist, so you can make sure all your questions are answered.