If the woman is having gas for pain relief, there are some support strategies that she and her partner or support people can use to contribute to making it a positive experience. These include:
Helping the woman time the use of the gas
Dry mouth and lips
Helping her to Breathe normally between contractions
Partner or support person using the gas
Helping the woman time the use of the gas. For some women timing the use of the gas becomes difficult. It could be that she dozes in between the contractions and only wakes when the contraction is quite strong (rather than when it is just starting to be sensed). If this is the case using the gas is then 'too late' for that contraction, often leaving the woman disorientated, in pain and dissatisfied with the method.
The caregiver is able to 'feel' the contraction starting by the touching the woman's belly and sensing a tightness or hardness developing. They may be able to do this (if they are able to stay with the woman). If not, it is not a hard skill to learn and perhaps the partner or support person can do this. Letting the woman know when to start breathing on the gas.
Using the gas in the pushing phase may mean it needs to be started 30 to 60 seconds before the next contraction is due, so that the woman can get a level of gas in her system, before she stops and pushes with the contraction. If this is the case, timing her contractions and letting her know when the next one is due will help her to use it in this way.
Dry mouth and lips. Many women will feel dry in the mouth or have dry, cracked lips when using the gas, especially if using it over a prolonged period. There are a few things you can do for this: