Views of people who have given birth on the environmental and occupational exposure risks of nitrous oxide for labour analgesia: an interview-based qualitative study

A 50:50 nitrous oxide/oxygen mix is commonly used for labour analgesia in the UK; however, nitrous oxide is associated with comparatively high environmental impact and potential exposure risks to staff if appropriate measures are not taken. Reduction of the impact of nitrous oxide in line with net zero emissions targets would require widespread changes in the way nitrous oxide is administered or in the availability of alternative options for labour analgesia. The aims of this qualitative study were to understand nitrous oxide use from the perspective of the parturient in the context of concerns regarding the environment and occupational exposure, and to provide evidence to guide the development of patient-centred nitrous oxide mitigation strategies.