Gloversville, NY — Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home announces the addition of nitrous oxide as a labor pain management option for its patients delivering at the Nathan Littauer Birthing Center.

Often referred to as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a safe, fast-acting blend of nitrous oxide and oxygen that can help laboring mothers feel more relaxed and in control during childbirth. The option provides temporary pain relief and anxiety reduction while allowing patients to remain awake, alert, and actively involved in their birth experience.

Nathan Littauer Birthing Center Nurse, Alexandria Hennessey, RN, BSN, preps the new Porter Nitronoxâ„¢ nitrous oxide machine for patient use.

Nitrous oxide is self-administered through a mask held by the patient. It begins working within seconds and wears off quickly once use is stopped, giving patients flexibility and control throughout labor.

“At Nathan Littauer, we are committed to offering personalized care that supports the unique needs and preferences of every family we serve,” said Nathan Littauer Birthing Center Manager Maureen Mosher, RN. “The addition of nitrous oxide expands the options available to our patients and reflects our ongoing efforts to providing a positive, patient-centered birth experience.”

Nitrous oxide does not eliminate all labor pain like an epidural; however, it can help take the edge off contractions, reduce anxiety, and improve comfort during labor. Because patients control when they use the mask, they can start and stop treatment as needed and may choose to transition to other pain management options at any time.

“Every labor experience is unique, and our goal is to support mothers by offering options that help them feel comfortable, confident, and in control,” said Hanna Barnholt, RN, Birthing Center Nurse at Nathan Littauer Hospital. “Nitrous oxide provides an additional pain management choice for patients who may be looking for a less invasive option during labor. It allows them to remain actively involved in their birth experience while helping reduce anxiety and improve comfort throughout the birthing process.”

Benefits of nitrous oxide include:

• Fast-acting relief
• Use during all stages of labor
• Patient-controlled administration
• Non-invasive pain management
• Rapid recovery once discontinued

While nitrous oxide is considered safe for most patients, it may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients are encouraged to discuss their medical history and labor pain management preferences with their healthcare provider to determine whether nitrous oxide is the right choice for them.

The Nathan Littauer Birthing Center provides comprehensive maternity care in a supportive, family-centered environment. The introduction of nitrous oxide further enhances Littauer’s Birthing Center’s commitment to offering modern, evidence-based options that empower patients throughout their childbirth journey.

For more information about labor and delivery services at Nathan Littauer Hospital’s Birthing Center, please call (518) 773-5710.

About Nathan Littauer

Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home is a full-service, 74-bed acute care hospital with an 84-bed skilled nursing home. Since 1894, Nathan Littauer has provided safe, high-quality health and wellness services, with a focus on securing appropriate new technologies for people residing in Upstate New York. In addition to its hospital and nursing home services, Nathan Littauer operates 11 Primary and Specialty Care Centers offering a wide range of medical specialties and services—enhancing access to care across the region. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services to ensure care remains comprehensive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves. More information can be found by visiting https://www.nlh.org or calling (518) 725-8621.