LET'S TALK ABOUT | Nitrous Oxide for Labor
Birth is hard work, we’ll always admit that fact. At Gather Birth Cooperative, we’re also big believers in the many ways of finding comfort and relaxation during labor. From the numerous unmedicated options, to the medicated options available depending on your birth location, there are plenty of wonderful tools to add to your comfort plan.
This blog will discuss the medicated option of nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, for labor and delivery during your birth at a free-standing birth center or a hospital, with a midwife or OBGYN doctor. Though the Gather Birth team is located in the Minneapolis, St. Paul and Greater Minnesota area, we’ve been thoughtful to include considerations for people birthing around the United States.
The use of nitrous oxide as a comfort tool has been wide-spread in Europe for a while, however this option is still relatively new in the United States. Let’s break down some general information about nitrous oxide, then discuss the benefits and things to consider.
Nitrous Oxide | Nice-to-Know:
The nitrous oxide used during birth is a different concentration of nitrous and oxygen compared to the version we’re used to at the dentist, making it safer for labor.
Nitrous oxide can be found at hospitals and free-standing birth centers. Depending on your location, it’s wise to ask your birth location if it’s available for you during labor.
While using nitrous oxide, you’ll inhale the gas through a mask starting at the beginning of your contraction until it’s finished.
COVID-19: Some birth locations have removed nitrous oxide from their comfort options due to the coronavirus. Make sure to double check that your birth location is still offering this tool.
Nitrous Oxide | The Good:
Though nitrous oxide can make some people feel a little loopy, the effect is typically not overwhelming. Nitrous oxide has a quick half-life, which means any effects will subside within 30 seconds to a minute of inhaling the gas.
Based on the latest research, nitrous oxide does not cross the placental barrier, meaning it should not have negative effects for your baby.
Nitrous oxide can be used at any stage during labor, including during pushing, the birth of your placenta or strictly during cervical exams.
Nitrous Oxide | The Not-So-Good:
Nitrous oxide is a relaxant, making it the least-powerful of your medicated pain options. However, it is incredibly helpful at allowing people to relax both during contractions and in the breaks in between.
Limitations and policies differ for birth location to birth location, so make sure to ask ahead of time. Questions to ask: Will using nitrous oxide limit my freedom of movement? Can I use nitrous oxide and be in the tub at the same time? Do you ask people to stop eating while using nitrous oxide?