Breathe in, breathe out: exploring nitrous oxide for pain relief in labor

scarver5
2 days ago
2 min read

When it comes to labor and birth, every woman’s experience is unique — and so are her preferences for pain management. One increasingly popular option at many birth centers across the country is nitrous oxide, sometimes known as “laughing gas.” This gentle, effective method is helping many women take control of their birthing experience without the heavy side effects of stronger medications.

What is nitrous oxide? Nitrous oxide is a colorless, odorless gas that has been used safely for over a century for pain relief and anxiety reduction. In a birth setting, it’s mixed with oxygen and self-administered through a mask that you hold yourself. This gives you the power to decide when and how often to use it — typically during contractions.

Why choose nitrous oxide?

Unlike epidurals or narcotics, nitrous oxide does not interfere with your mobility, your ability to push or your connection with the moment. It kicks in quickly (within seconds) and leaves your system just as fast, which makes it a great choice if you’re looking for something low-intervention but still effective. Many who have given birth say nitrous helped them feel calmer, more in control and better able to cope with the intensity of labor. It doesn’t eliminate pain entirely — but it can reduce anxiety.

Is it safe?

Yes. Nitrous oxide is considered safe for both mother and baby. According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, there are no known effects on the baby’s breathing or alertness at birth, and

the mother remains awake and aware throughout labor.

Available at birth centers

More birth centers are offering nitrous oxide as an option for women who want a natural or low-intervention birth but still want support managing discomfort. Since it’s self-administered and wears off quickly, it aligns well with the birth center philosophy of empowering women and minimizing unnecessary interventions.

Considerations with nitrous oxide

Nitrous oxide may not provide enough relief for everyone — you may opt to switch to other methods if labor becomes more intense. Some women experience dizziness, nausea or a sense of disorientation, especially if nitrous oxide is used for long periods. Note that not all facilities offer nitrous oxide, so ask early in your prenatal care if it’s available where you plan to give birth.

Final thoughts

Every birth is a personal journey. Whether you plan for an unmedicated labor or want tools like nitrous oxide at your side, the most important thing is that you feel informed and supported. If you’re curious about using nitrous oxide during labor, talk to your midwife or birth center early in your pregnancy. You deserve choices that honor your body, your birth and your voice.

References

American College of Nurse-Midwives. (2016). Position Statement: Nitrous Oxide for Labor Analgesia. Broughton, K., Clark, A. G., & Ray, A. P. (2020).

Nitrous Oxide for Labor Analgesia: What We Know to Date. Ochsner Journal, 20(4), 419–421.

Women and Birth. (2022). Benchmarking nitrous oxide use in maternity care: Clinical audit and consumer perspectives.