Heartfelt Stories – Melissa’s Experience with Nitrous Oxide During Childbirth at MCH

Melissa Lake holding her newborn daughter, Brynn, in the Birthing Suite at Monadnock Community Hospital
Heartfelt Stories - Melissa's Experience with Nitrous Oxide During Childbirth at MCH
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Heartfelt Stories

At Monadnock Community Hospital, we are proud to share our Heartfelt Stories featuring inspiring testimonials from our patients, employees, volunteers, donors, and community members. Each story reflects the exceptional care, support, and compassion that define our commitment to our community. Join us in celebrating these remarkable journeys and the difference compassionate care can make.

Monadnock Community Hospital Leads the Way in Safe and Effective Birth Options

In 2014, the Birthing Suite at Monadnock Community Hospital became the third hospital in America to offer nitrous oxide—a clear, odorless gas mixed with oxygen—for women in labor. Nitrous oxide is the number one choice for birth pain management in Canada, Australia, and Europe and is one of the safest options from the baby’s standpoint because it is a low-impact medication.

Melissa Lake was one of the first MCH patients to choose nitrous oxide for her delivery.

“I knew from the start that I didn’t want to be groggy when I first met my daughter, but I also knew I needed something to help with pain. So nitrous really was the best option for me. I liked that it was safe for both me and my baby. I also liked that I was able to administer it myself—and could stop when it felt like I had had enough.”

“My delivery was great!” Melissa says. “The MCH nurses and doctors were incredible and supported me every way they could. I would recommend the Birthing Suite to any woman who is looking for a warm, welcoming place to have her baby. The care is incredible. Plus, most of the nurses are also lactation consultants and can answer any questions about breastfeeding. That was a real comfort for me.”

These days, little Brynn and mom Melissa are enjoying precious time together—and Brynn now has her very own doctor at Monadnock Regional Pediatrics!