Intracervical Balloon Placement With Nitrous Oxide Administration

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of nitrous oxide versus oxygen in facilitating the successful placement of a Foley balloon catheter for cervical ripening and induction of labor.

Inclusion Criteria: * Patients admitted to labor and delivery for induction of labor (term inductions, medically indicated preterm inductions). * Pregnant patients who are eligible for intracervical balloon placement. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant patients with contraindications to receiving nitrous oxide. * Inability to safely self-administer nitrous oxide * Allergy to nitrous oxide * History of malignant hyperthermia, * Concomitant administration of magnesium sulfate * Less than 35 weeks gestational age * Non-reassuring fetal heart tracing * Use of intravenous or intramuscular opioid within 4 hours * Vitamin B12 deficiency * Gas-trapping conditions such as pneumothorax or small bowel obstruction * Patients requesting neuraxial anesthesia * Non-English speaking patients.