Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 21, 2026

A Novel Inhalation Mask System to Deliver High Concentrations of Nitric Oxide Gas in Spontaneously Breathing Subjects
Published on: May 4, 2021
[Dinitrogen monoxide in the treatment of labor pains]
Jouni Ahonen1, Mikko Tarvonen, Susanna Sainio
1HUS, Kätilöopiston sairaala, PL 610, 00029 HUS.
Abstract:
Self-administered nitrous oxide relieves labour pain in approximately two-thirds of women, and there is a dose-response with a maximum effect at a concentration of 70%. Nitrous oxide can be used during all stages of labour, and it has no impact on the progress of labour. Occupational exposure of health care workers to nitrous oxide has no adverse effects on their reproductive health if there is an adequate scavenging system in the delivery rooms. The greenhouse effect of the medical use of nitrous oxide is minimal and in future, its catalytic splitting to nitrogen and oxygen may overcome this adverse effect.
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