
A study examined the association between intrapartum nitrous oxide use and short-term neonatal outcomes. Of the 6,047 participants, 31.3% received nitrous oxide, while 68.7% received no analgesia. Nitrous oxide recipients had lower NICU admission rates (6.4% vs 8.1%) but higher rates of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. No significant differences were observed in Apgar scores, respiratory outcomes, or hypoglycemia. The study suggests that nitrous oxide may decrease NICU admissions but increase hyperbilirubinemia risk. These findings provide valuable information for patient counselling regarding labour analgesia choices.
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