Nitrous Oxide for Pain Relief in Labor: What You Need to Know

-

 


Nitrous Oxide for Pain Relief in Labor: What You Need to Know



When it comes to pain relief options during labor, nitrous oxide—often called "laughing gas"—is one of the lesser-known but growing choices available to birthing people in the United States. While it has been widely used for labor pain relief in countries like Canada, the UK, and Sweden for decades, its use in the U.S. has only recently started gaining traction. So, what does the evidence actually say about nitrous oxide during labor? Let’s dive in!

What Is Nitrous Oxide and How Does It Work?

Nitrous oxide is an inhaled analgesic, meaning it provides systemic pain relief rather than numbing a specific area like an epidural. It’s a 50/50 mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen, administered through a mask that you hold over your mouth and nose. The key to using it effectively is timing your breaths—starting to inhale 30-45 seconds before a contraction peaks to experience the best pain relief.

Unlike an epidural, nitrous oxide doesn’t eliminate pain entirely. Instead, it helps take the edge off, reduces anxiety, and creates a sense of relaxation, making contractions more manageable for some people. It kicks in quickly (within a minute) and wears off just as fast once you stop inhaling.

How Common Is Nitrous Oxide During Labor?

Globally, nitrous oxide is a staple in birth settings—used in about 50% of births in countries like Finland, Norway, and Australia, and as high as 70% in Sweden. In the U.S., its availability is increasing. While only two hospitals offered nitrous oxide in 2011, as of 2019, approximately 1,000 hospitals and 300 birth centers had made it available. That number continues to grow, particularly in midwife-led birth centers.

What Does the Research Say?

The research on nitrous oxide in labor is mixed but generally positive. While it doesn’t provide pain relief as strong as an epidural, it’s often compared to injectable opioids in effectiveness—with fewer side effects for the baby. Some key findings include:

  • Pain relief is moderate. Studies show that nitrous oxide provides some pain relief, but it is often described as "partial" or "temporary."
  • It can help maintain birth plans. Many people choose nitrous oxide to avoid an epidural while still having some relief.
  • Side effects are mild. The most common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness. About 13% of users report nausea, while dizziness and drowsiness occur in about 4-5% of cases.
  • Most people switch to stronger pain relief. Studies found that about 69% of those who start with nitrous oxide eventually switch to an epidural or other medication.
  • No known harmful effects on newborns. Research has not found any significant negative impact on newborn health, APGAR scores, or NICU admissions.

Benefits of Nitrous Oxide in Labor

  • Provides a quick-acting, non-invasive pain relief option
  • Gives birthing people control over when and how they use it
  • Does not require an IV, catheter, or continuous monitoring
  • Can be used at any stage of labor, even for pushing or postpartum procedures like perineal repairs
  • Leaves the body quickly, allowing for mobility and alertness

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

  • Does not eliminate pain, only reduces perception of it
  • Requires active participation—holding the mask and timing breaths correctly
  • Can cause dizziness, nausea, or a feeling of detachment
  • Should not be combined with opioids or sedatives due to increased sedation risks
  • Some studies suggest a possible effect on vitamin B12 levels, though more research is needed

Bottom Line: Is Nitrous Oxide Right for You?

Nitrous oxide is a solid option for those looking for a flexible, low-intervention pain relief method that allows them to stay mobile and in control during labor. While it doesn’t provide the numbing effect of an epidural, many birthing people find it helpful in managing anxiety and coping with contractions.

If you’re considering nitrous oxide for your birth, talk to your provider about whether it’s available at your hospital or birth center and whether it’s a good fit for your labor plan.

Want to hear more details straight from the experts? Click here to listen to the full Evidence Based Birth podcast episode on nitrous oxide in labor!


Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance regarding pain management during labor.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Everything You Need to Know About Insurance Coverage for Doula Services

-
  Everything You Need to Know About Insurance Coverage for Doula Services Hello and welcome! I’m Phyllis Herbe, the proud owner of Dogwood Doula Birth Services, where I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based support for moms during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. One of the questions I get asked most often is about insurance coverage for doula services, and I’m here to make this process simple and straightforward for you. We’re excited to share that we accept multiple insurance plans, making doula support more accessible than ever. Below, you’ll find detailed information about the different types of coverage we offer and easy links to blog posts tailored to each insurance plan. Click the link that matches your plan to learn more about how to get started! Insurance Plans We Accept 1. Medicaid (Healthy Blue, United Healthcare, and Wellcare) Doula services can now be covered under various Medicaid plans, offering full or partial coverage depending on your eligi...
Read more

Choosing a Homebirth Midwife or Birth Center Near Fayetteville, NC

-
Image
If you’re in the Fayetteville/Fort Liberty area and considering a homebirth or birth center, you may have noticed that finding a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) or Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) who attends home births in North Carolina can be tricky. To make your search easier, I’ve put together a list of homebirth midwives and out-of-hospital (OOH) birth centers within approximately two hours of Fayetteville.. Birth Centers Haven Women’s Health and Birth Center ( Accepts Insurance ) Sara Fawson, CNM Location: Cary, NC Website: havenhealthandbirth.com Contact: 919-322-0284 Aya Birth House and Community Wellness ( Accepts Insurance ) Tina Braimah, CNM Location: Durham, NC Website: ayawellness.org Contact: info@ayawellness.org Accepting Birth House clients with due dates Dec. 15, 2024, and beyond Natural Beginnings Birth Center ( Accepts Insurance ) Marcia Ensminger, CNM Location: Statesville, NC Website: naturalbeginningsnc.com Contact: 704...
Read more

Dogwood Doula’s Guide to: How to Get a Referral for Doula Care with Tricare

-
  Dogwood Doula’s Guide to: How to Get a Referral for Doula Care with Tricare  If you are a Tricare beneficiary and want to access doula care, follow these simple steps to secure a referral and start your journey toward supported, confident birthing care. Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility Plan Type : Ensure you are enrolled in Tricare Prime or Tricare Select. Active duty members require a referral regardless of network status. Delivery Location : Referrals are only valid for deliveries outside of Military Treatment Facilities (MTFs). MTF births are not covered under the current program.  *WOMACK AMC is an MTF. Only those planning to give birth off post are eligible for doula services. Provider Requirements : You must plan to give birth with a Tricare-authorized provider, such as an OB/GYN, a family practice doctor, or a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM). Certified Professional Midwives (CPMs) are not authorized. Timing : Doula services can begin once you are at least 20 weeks ...
Read more