Breathe Easy, Mama: Why We Offer Nitrous Oxide (and Still Believe in Natural Birth)

Learn how nitrous oxide offers gentle, on-demand relief during labor while keeping you in control. The Center for Birth in Keller, Texas supports natural birth and informed choice.

Because Birth Should Be Empowering, not a Test of Endurance

At The Center for Birth, we are big believers in the miraculous, awe-inspiring, and occasionally loud, power of the human body. We’ve seen it countless times; a woman taps into her strength, breathes through the waves of contractions, and brings her baby earthside with nothing but courage, love, and breath.

It’s beautiful. It’s primal. It’s holy.

But here’s the thing. Just because you can do it, it doesn’t mean you have to do it without options.

That’s where nitrous oxide comes in.

What Is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide also known as “laughing gas” is a simple blend of 50% oxygen and 50% nitrous that you breathe through a mask during contractions.

It works fast, wears off quickly, and most importantly: you control it.
When you breathe it in, it can take the edge off those powerful contractions and help you stay centered. When you pull the mask away, the effects fade in seconds.

Think of it like dimming the lights instead of turning them off. You’re still fully aware, but things feel a little softer, a little calmer, and a lot more doable.

Does It Make You Giggle?

Sometimes! And honestly, we love it when it does.

But more often, moms describe it as feeling “floaty,” “calmer,” or “just enough to take the edge off.”
You’ll still be alert, mobile, and in full control, but with a little extra calm in your corner.

 Why Midwives Love It

We believe in honoring the body’s wisdom while honoring your choices.

Nitrous oxide doesn’t interfere with labor progress. Doesn’t affect your baby’s alertness after birth and doesn’t require IVs or force you to stay in bed. It’s simply another gentle option in your toolkit. One that lets you stay present, powerful, and fully engaged in your birthing journey.

Whether your ideal birth includes soft candlelight and deep breathing, or a little nitrous and a playlist of 80s power ballads, we’re here for it.

Because natural birth isn’t about proving anything! It’s about feeling supported and free to choose what works for you.

Choice Is the Heart of Empowered Birth

At The Center for Birth, our philosophy is simple: Every woman deserves to birth her way with knowledge, respect, and love.

So, if you decide to use nitrous oxide, know this; you’re still doing it your way. You’re still connected, aware, and absolutely capable. You’re simply adding one more tool to the long list of comfort measures in your birthing toolkit.

Because sometimes, empowerment sounds like deep breathing.
And sometimes… it sounds like a happy sigh through a little blue mask.

Learn More or Schedule a Tour

Curious about nitrous oxide or other options for your upcoming birth? Come visit us at The Center for Birth in Keller, Texas. Our midwives would love to answer your questions, show you around our serene birth suites, and help you envision the kind of birth experience that feels right for you.