NHS Suffolk and North East Essex - Labour and Birth Booklet

22 For more information visit: • NHS Choices www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pain-relief-labour/#tens - machines • Which choices www.which.co.uk/reviews/tens-machines/article/should-i-use-a-tens- machine-during-labour Gas and air (Entonox) This is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide gas, and is breathed in through a mouthpiece which you have control of yourself. It can be used throughout established labour and can reduce the amount of discomfort you feel from the contractions. If you are planning a homebirth, a midwife can bring a cylinder of entonox to your home for you to use. It is available in all midwifery-led and obstetric units. Short term use in labour causes no harmful side effects and you can often stay mobile whilst using it. It can also be used in the birthing pool. Entonox can make some women feel light-headed, sleepy or nauseous – if this happens you can stop using it and the effects will subside. For more information visit: • NHS Choices www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pain-relief-labour/#gas -and- air-entonox-for-labour Water in labour and birth Using water (either in a bath or birthing pool) is known to be an effective method of providing pain relief and aiding relaxation in labour. If your pregnancy and labour have been straight-forward, using a birthing pool may be particularly suitable for you.