Pro-Nox for HSG

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HSG is a brief procedure, but some patients experience cramping, discomfort, or anxiety. Pro-Nox is a patient-controlled nitrous oxide and oxygen system that can help reduce discomfort and anxiety while allowing you to remain awake and in control. 

You may experience cramping when the catheter is placed or as contrast is introduced into the uterus and fallopian tubes. This is often similar to menstrual cramps and may feel dull or sharp. Some patients experience a brief, more intense cramp when the contrast is injected. 

To help minimize discomfort during your HSG, we offer several supportive options:

Pro-Nox (nitrous oxide & oxygen): This safe, fast-acting inhaled gas is self-administered, allowing you to control relief of discomfort and anxiety during the procedure. Its effects begin within seconds and wear off quickly, so you can resume normal activities shortly afterward.

Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen: Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever 30–60 minutes before your appointment may help reduce cramping during the exam. These medications can also be used afterward if needed.

Relaxation Techniques: Simple measures such as slow, deep breathing can help reduce tension and make the experience more manageable.

• Rapid onset: Effects begin within seconds. 
• Patient-controlled: You control when you inhale the gas. 
• Helps reduce anxiety and discomfort: You remain awake and in control throughout the procedure. 
• Quick recovery: Effects wear off within minutes.

If you choose Pro-Nox, you will use a small mouthpiece to inhale the gas as needed during your HSG. You remain awake and alert throughout the procedure. After the exam, the effects wear off within a few minutes, allowing you to resume your normal activities. 

Pro-Nox is generally well tolerated. Temporary side effects may include lightheadedness, dizziness, tingling, a feeling of warmth or floating, or mild nausea. These effects typically resolve within minutes after stopping the gas. 

Common temporary effects may include lightheadedness, dizziness, tingling of the hands or feet, a feeling of warmth or floating, mild nausea, and occasionally changes in taste perception. These effects typically resolve within minutes after discontinuing the gas.

Because Pro-Nox wears off quickly, patients can return to their normal activities shortly after their HSG exam. Unlike intravenous sedation, Pro-Nox does not require needles, prolonged monitoring, or a lengthy recovery period.

If you have certain medical conditions, Pro-Nox may not be appropriate for you. Please let our staff know if you have significant lung disease, a history of pneumothorax (collapsed lung), severe vitamin B12 deficiency, or recent ear or eye surgery. We will be happy to discuss whether Pro-Nox is right for you.

Pro-Nox may be a good option if you would like additional help managing discomfort or anxiety during your HSG. Because it is not appropriate for everyone, please let us know about any relevant medical conditions before your procedure. 

Pro-Nox is available for $75 during hysterosalpingogram (HSG) exams. Please note that it is not covered by insurance.