Myrtue's Birthing Center Now Offering Nitrous Oxide to Patients

Beginning in December 2024, Myrtue's Birthing Center will offer Nitrous Oxide as a pain management option for labor and delivery patients. This safe and effective method allows women to manage pain without the need for additional interventions such as epidurals or stronger medications.

“We are very excited to be able to offer nitrous oxide as an option for pain management during labor and delivery,” said Michele Monson, RNC-OB, Birthing Center Manager. "We are committed to helping expectant mothers achieve their birth plans. By providing nitrous oxide, we can support those who desire a more natural birthing experience, helping them feel more in control while managing pain in a safe and effective way."

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is colorless, faintly sweet smelling, and a fast acting sedative used for short-term pain relief. Nitrous oxide takes effect quickly and within three to five minutes patient will start feeling the calming effects. This pain management alternative is utilized in a variety of facilities across the world including aesthetics, labor and delivery, orthopedics, plastic surgery, dentistry, dermatology, hospitals, and surgery centers for many years.

How it Works

Patients inhale nitrous oxide through our advanced Pro-Nox Nitrous Oxide Delivery System, which combines a precise 50% Nitrous Oxide and 50% Oxygen mixture. The system features a specially designed on-demand valve that delivers the medical gases only when the patient inhales, ensuring optimal control and comfort. Patients will typically begin feeling relief within just a few breaths, providing fast-acting, effective support. Unlike stronger sedatives, Nitrous Oxide does not induce sleep, so patients remain fully alert, responsive, and able to engage with their maternity provider throughout the process.

“I am excited to offer nitrous oxide as an option for laboring patients—it's a safe, effective, and empowering tool that gives them more control over their experience, helping to ease discomfort and promote a more positive birth journey,” said Dr. Kelly Anderson, Myrtue’s in-house OB/GYN.

Your maternity provider adjusts the dosage accordingly throughout labor and delivery. Some patient prefer to use nitrous oxide during contractions, while others use it to relax during the time between them.

At Myrtue’s Birthing Center, we are committed to empowering each mother to achieve her ideal birth experience, providing personalized care and support every step of the way. Providing this additional pain management option to patients is another way we strive to accomplish this mission. The Birthing Center team was trained on the Pro-Nox Delivery System in November and is ready to help patients who would like to try this method of pain management.

If you have any other questions regarding Nitrous Oxide or Myrtue’s Birthing Center, please call 712.755.4244. To schedule a prenatal appointment, call our scheduling department at 712.755.4516.