Nitrous oxide use during labor and delivery is a great option for pain relief. Nitrous oxide is safe for use for most women, offers minimal side effects, and is also safe for babies with no effect on baby alertness or breastfeeding.
Moreland OB-GYN is the first medical provider in Southeastern Wisconsin to offer nitrous oxide during labor and is a premiere gynecology and obstetric practice with services in Waukesha, Oconomowoc, Brookfield, Sussex, Mukwonago, and Watertown.
Nitrous oxide is a flavorless, odorless gas that can be administered to patients to help alleviate pain and anxiety, and promote relaxation.
Nitrous oxide is safe for use during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Nitrous oxide is a unique pain-relief option during labor and delivery because it can be used at any time.
Patients are in control of administering nitrous oxide by either putting on or removing a mask. Breathing with the mask in place allows the effects of nitrous oxide to be felt in 30 seconds or less, allowing patients to experience pain relief and reduced feelings of anxiety almost immediately. Upon removal of the mask, within three breaths, the effects of nitrous oxide can no longer be felt.
Learn more about nitrous oxide vs. other pain relief options in this informative article.
The use of nitrous oxide in labor and delivery is beneficial for many reasons.
In a recent New York Times article written by Sarah Baird, “The Rise of Laughing Gas in the Delivery Room,” healthcare professionals from around the country weigh in on the benefits of nitrous oxide and its rising popularity in the U.S. The article states, “The increased interest in nitrous dovetails with a growing number of women searching for ways to avoid additional medical interventions during birth.” Read more.
There are very few risks associated with the use of nitrous oxide. In fact, it is one of the safest pain relief options for women during labor and delivery.
Nitrous oxide side effects include:
You can be given anti-nausea medication to help reduce these symptoms.
The nitrous oxide used by obstetricians during labor and delivery is 50-percent nitrous gas and 50-percent oxygen. Unlike the side effects of much higher concentrations used in dentistry and other medical fields, the side effects of a 50/50 gas are minimized substantially. In fact, all side effects of nitrous oxide wear off in as little as 10-15 minutes.
Almost everyone is a good candidate for using nitrous oxide in labor and delivery. The only disqualifying factor is if you currently have a B12 deficiency or if you’ve had one in the past.
If you are interested in the use of nitrous oxide during labor, our staff will draw blood in your third trimester to confirm it is a safe option for you.
Nitrous oxide can also be used successfully to help patients who experience pain with cervical checks or other procedures during pregnancy.
