Nitrous Oxide for Labor: A Safe and Calm Option

To give families more options, we’re pleased to offer self-administered nitrous oxide as a safe and effective choice during labor.

At MetroHealth, we want every parent to have choices when it comes to their birth experience. Many people think about pain management when they are getting ready to have a baby. Some choose an epidural, while others prefer little or no medication.

About Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is a colorless gas sometimes called “laughing gas.” You breathe it through a mask that you hold yourself. It does not take away pain, but it can help you feel more relaxed for a few minutes at a time.

It may make you feel a little light or happy, but it does not make you feel out of control.

Nitrous Oxide Safety

When used under the supervision of a care team, nitrous oxide has been proven to be safe for most people in labor. You feel the effects, but your baby does not.

Some people with certain heart conditions or celiac disease may need to talk with their provider first to make sure it’s the right choice for them.

Comparing Pain Control Options

There are two common pain management choices during labor:

Epidurals

• Help with strong pain relief
• Require you to stay in bed
• You cannot walk around after getting one

IV Medications

• Are usually narcotics
• Can make you sleepy or groggy
• May affect the baby’s breathing if used too late
• Are usually given only once

Advantages of Nitrous Oxide

• Helps you relax and stay calm during contractions
• Works quickly and fades quickly
• Lets you move around
• Lets you decide when to use it (self-administered)
• Has no lasting side effects

While nitrous oxide will not reduce pain, its calming effects help people manage the intensity of contractions that might happen early on.

“When a patient is in pain during labor and delivery, they tend to tighten up and that’s the last thing we want them to do,” said Amy Lowell, CNM, APRN, Director of Midwifery at MetroHealth. “Nitrous oxide is a wonderful tool in helping mitigate that physical and mental tension without lasting side effects.”

“I like to think of nitrous oxide as a helpful crutch for patients who are highly motivated to try and have an unanesthetized or unepiduralized delivery,” said Clodagh Mullen, MD, Director of Labor and Delivery at MetroHealth. “It’s a great option for those who don’t necessarily want to have an epidural right away or wish to see if one will even be necessary.”

The Choice is Up to You

We want you to feel informed, involved and confident when deciding your birthing plan. If you want to learn more about our labor and delivery pain management options, talk with your provider or midwife.

Need to schedule an appointment? Call 216-778-4444 or visit www.metrohealth.org/obgyn.

Your Questions Answered

Q. What is nitrous oxide during labor?

A. Nitrous oxide, sometimes called "laughing gas," is a safe pain relief option used during labor. You breathe it in through a mask when contractions begin. It can help you feel calmer and more relaxed while staying awake and in control.

Q. Will nitrous oxide take away all my labor pain?

A. No. Nitrous oxide does not completely stop pain like an epidural can. Instead, it helps you relax and cope with contractions, making labor feel more manageable for many people.

Q. Is nitrous oxide safe for me and my baby?

A. Yes. Nitrous oxide has been used safely during labor for many years. It leaves your body quickly, and you can stop using it at any time. Your care team can help you decide if it is a good choice for you and your baby.