# Nitrous Oxide for Labor

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/birth/nitrous-oxide
Last updated: 2026-07-15

> Nitrous oxide, often called "laughing gas," is a self-administered option for labor pain relief that offers quick onset and offset without affecting labor progress or baby's alertness.

Nitrous oxide for labor offers a unique approach to managing discomfort, providing a gentle form of pain relief that you control, allowing for mobility and a clear mind.

## What it is
Nitrous oxide, often referred to as "laughing gas" for labor, is a pharmacological option for pain management that offers a unique balance of relief and autonomy. It's a mixture of 50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen, delivered through a mask that you hold yourself. This self-administration is a key aspect, as it gives you direct control over when and how much you use it, typically by breathing it in during a contraction. While it has been a standard offering for labor pain in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia for many years, its availability in US hospitals is steadily increasing, offering more options for birthing parents.

## What the evidence says
Research, including insights from Cochrane reviews, consistently shows that nitrous oxide can be a valuable tool for labor comfort. It provides a greater degree of pain reduction than using no pharmacological intervention, though it offers less intense relief compared to an [Epidural Anesthesia](/birth/epidural). One of its significant advantages is its rapid onset and offset; the effects are felt quickly and clear from your system within 1-2 minutes after you stop breathing it. This means it doesn't accumulate in your body or your baby's, which is why it doesn't affect labor progress or your baby's alertness at birth. Furthermore, evidence confirms no negative impact on breastfeeding initiation. While generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or a dry mouth. It's often used in combination with other comfort measures, such as [Non-Pharmacological Labor Comfort](/birth/comfort-measures-labor) like hydrotherapy or movement.

## When it's recommended
Nitrous oxide is an option for individuals who are seeking some level of pharmacological pain relief but wish to remain mobile, avoid more invasive interventions, or maintain a greater sense of mental clarity during labor. Because you control its use, it can be a flexible option throughout various stages of labor. It's particularly appealing for those who want to navigate contractions with a tool that takes the edge off, without the full numbing effect that might limit movement or sensation. It can also be a bridge for those considering other options like [IV Opioids for Labor](/birth/iv-opioids-labor) or an epidural later in labor, offering support in the interim.

## Brittany's doula perspective
As a doula, I often see parents appreciate options that empower them with choice and control. Nitrous oxide truly embodies this, as you get to decide when to use it and for how long. It's a tool that can help you feel more calm and confident during contractions, allowing you to focus on your body's work. What I find particularly valuable is that it supports your agency; you hold the mask, you breathe it in, and you can stop at any moment. This ability to self-regulate your pain relief can be incredibly empowering. It allows for continued movement and position changes, which are often vital for labor progress and comfort. When we discuss your birth preferences, exploring options like nitrous oxide means considering how you want to feel and what level of intervention aligns with your vision for your birth. Remember, your provider is your best resource for your specific situation, and discussing all your comfort options beforehand can help you make informed decisions when the time comes.