Types of anethesia used during abortions

Dear Hannah,

I heard that there are different kinds of anesthesia available for when I have my abortion.  Could you explain?  Thanks, Tricia L.  

Sure, Tricia–thanks for the question!  If you get an abortion, you will always receive a local anesthesia.  This will be injected into the cervix and will alleviate the pain in that area, but you will most likely have cramping during the abortion.  You will be able to eat before the procedure, be completely awake during it, and drive home without assistance. 

In addition to the local anesthesia, you may decide to have conscious sedation.  This will be delivered through an IV and will make you drowsy and nearly pain free.  You probably will be instructed not to eat before the abortion and will need someone to drive you home afterwards.  Conscious sedation is more expensive than local anesthesia alone.

Also, you can have general anesthesia done by a licensed anesthetist for a higher price.  You will be completely unconscious and will not remember any of the procedure.  Like the conscious sedation, you will need a ride home because you will not be able to drive right away.

Because of the nature of the procedure, many women are too anxious to stay calm during their abortion.  You can be given medication to temporarily relieve some of the anxiety and to help keep you relaxed.

Of course, these methods of pain relief only cover the physical pain of the short procedure.  Keep in mind that no pain reliever can fully alleviate any potential emotional pain and/or grief which may accompany an abortion.

Hannah