CentraCare Health – Monticello’s Birth Center introduces a new option to provide comfort for moms during labor and delivery

CentraCare Health – Monticello’s Birth Center now provides laboring mothers the option to use nitrous oxide to provide comfort during contractions and childbirth.

“We are proud to provide laboring moms with options to help them feel comfortable and create the birth experience they determine is best for them,” said Hannah Whalen, RN, Manager at CentraCare Health – Monticello’s Birth Center. “The nitrous oxide we provide is safe and is delivered through a mask that only the laboring mom can hold during her contractions. The laboring mom is in control of determining when she needs the relief and when she does not, putting her in charge of her labor experience.”

The nitrous oxide offered during labor is a mixture of 50 percent nitrous oxide and 50 percent oxygen which is a different blend that what is commonly known as laughing gas used in dental offices. Once the mask is removed, the nitrous oxide wears off within one to two minutes.

“We are dedicated to the safety of our moms and babies,” said Tim Olson, MD, OB/GYN at Stellis Health and Medical Director at CentraCare Health – Monticello’s Birth Center. “Nitrous Oxide provides us with an option that is safe for both mom and baby. All laboring moms are informed of all their options before labor. Because every mom, baby and delivery is unique, we take care to make sure that each option available is appropriate for each situation in which it is offered. I am happy to be a part of what CentraCare Health is currently providing for laboring moms by offering expanded options at CentraCare Health – Monticello.”

Learn more now about the CentraCare Health – Monticello’s Birth Center.