Pain Management Option with Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide is used widely around the world for pain during labor however its use in the United States has not been as great until recently. Billings Clinic Family Birth Center makes it available to moms-to-be so that they have more control over their labor and delivery pain.  Moms appreciate that it doesn't interfere with the health of their baby or the mother's ability to move and labor in a way that makes them more comfortable. 

Nitrous oxide allows moms to regulate how much or how little she needs.  It can also cause the mom to relax and not feel the anxiety that may come with needles or pain associated with the birthing experience.

Benefits to Using Nitrous Oxide

• It is self-administered - you breathe it as you feel the need
• Easy to use
• Fast acting
• Quick recovery
• Doesn't interfere with labor, the ability to push or breastfeeding

Although nitrous oxide does not take the pain away, most women share that it  helps take the edge off of the contractions and allows them to cope with labor better.  Some report more pain relief.  Nitrous oxide helps in lowering anxiety which can also help you cope with pain better.

To learn more about this option, visit with your Billings Clinic provider about using nitrous oxide during your baby's birth.