My 2nd colonoscopy, I requested we skip the normal sedation.
During the procedure, there were a few instances of painful bloating, like perhaps the worst gas you've ever felt, as the doctor uses air pressure to expand the intestines for a clearer view and navigation around corners. But the pain receded in seconds each time, and the whole inspection takes maybe 10 minutes.
It was really interesting to see what the doctor saw, fully alert, and be able to leave immediately afterward without a ride.
For those who are curious, not squeamish, and don't mind a little transitory discomfort during a professional procedure, consider less or no sedation.
I ask for very light sedation. I still remember what was happening, but didn't feel any discomfort.
I asked for local anesthesia for a major knee surgery. (They normally do full anesthesia for that because an epidural injection is considered a bit riskier.)
That was a lot of fun! The doctor was delighted to have such an interested and captive audience, and ran over time because he spent too much time explaining everything while doing the procedure.
"Now I will cut loose this useless tendon from your thigh and reuse it as a replacement ACL."
