Pain Management
Pain Management Before Childbirth
Childbirth is a beautiful experience, but you may experience some degree of discomfort, which is why our providers may recommend a combination of medications, techniques and comfort measures to address your unique perception of pain.
- IV pain medication used to lessen pain without loss of feeling or muscle movement.
- Nitrous Oxide—tasteless and odorless gas used to decrease anxiety and increase a feeling of wellbeing
- Epidural
- Relaxation techniques
- Visual imagery and focusing
- Position changes
- Breathing techniques
- Birth Balls
- Heat and Cold Therapy
- Music Therapy
- Showers
Pain Management Through Labor Progression Information (PDF, 225KB)
Nitrous Oxide
The Birthing Center is pleased to offer an alternative to managing pain during labor. Nitrous oxide is a blend of 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous oxide. It is a patient-controlled analgesic that is available for use during labor and repairs after delivery. It offers immediate relief from anxiety and pain, avoids the sleepiness that comes with traditional pain management, and does not interfere with your ability to push.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there are no known effects to the baby. Since nitrous oxide is cleared through the lungs, it only takes a couple of breaths to clear your system.
No, dental offices can use up to 70% concentration of nitrous oxide
While using nitrous oxide, no other form of pain control may be used. However, IV pain medications and or an epidural may be administered 15 minutes following discontinuation of nitrous oxide
Pain Management After Childbirth
- Toradol - IV pain medication, used for post-op pain control
- Tylenol - oral pain medication, used to treat fever, inflammation, and pain
- Motrin - oral pain medication, especially helpful for cramping type pain
- Oxycodone - oral pain medication, used to treat moderate to severe pain
- Stool Softener - used to treat constipation
Postpartum Pain Management Flyer (PDF, 443KB)