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Gas and Oxygen
This method of pain relief - made up of 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous
oxide (laughing gas), is taken by inhaling the gas either through a
rubber mask or mouthpiece held between your lips, at the onset of a
contraction. This method can be quite successful if done correctly -
inhaling of the gas should begin as
soon as you feel a contraction starting. This will give it time to
gradually build up in your bloodstream, thus offering you maximum
pain relief once the contraction has reached it's peak. Many women
find optimum relief in this method, and enjoy being able to control
the amount of gas needed, however there are those women who report
that 'gas and air' alone do not offer enough pain relief as their
labour progresses.
Advantages:
- You are in control, and can use as much as is needed.
- There are no harmful effects to the baby.
- The effects are temporary, and in between contractions the
drowsiness will disappear.
Disadvantages:
- Being a mild painkiller, it won't offer total pain relief.
- Some women say that the gas makes them feel nauseous.
- Your mouth may become dry with an increase in thirst, if used
for a long period of time.
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