TENS And Labor Pain: What Expectant Mums Need To Know

Pregnant women can now manage the pain of labour in a lot of ways. Different pain management methods suit each woman, so it's important to consider the range of options available to you. TENS is a pain control method that helps many pregnant women every year, but it's important to know what this entails. Find out here.

About TENS machines

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a pain control method that uses a special machine. A TENS machine has two sets of fine leads that connect to four sticky pads that you place on your back. You (or your partner) then use a small handheld controller to send out small electrical pulses.

Two of the pads sit on either side of your spine just below the level of your bra-strap. The other two pads sit in a similar position slightly lower down your back. A sticky gel on each pad makes sure the electrical pulses pass easily through your skin. You can make the pads stickier by rubbing a few drops of water into the gel side.

How TENS helps you manage pain

Doctors are not entirely sure how TENS helps pregnant women cope with pain. Some experts believe that the electrical pulses stop pain signals getting to your brain. It's also possible that the process causes your body to release natural endorphins that counter stress and help you feel good. Some experts believe that the process simply gives women a feeling of control and distracts them from their painful contractions.

Although doctors don't yet understand how TENS works, many expert bodies recommend that this pain control method is available to pregnant women, as it is beneficial to have non-pharmacological pain control options.

When TENS is most effective

A TENS machine sends electrical pulses directly to your back, so many women find that this method of pain relief is particularly effective for the lower back pain experienced during the early stages of labour.

Some women decide to use a TENS machine throughout labour. There's nothing wrong with doing this, but you may need to have other types of pain control as well, especially during the later stages. You can usually boost the impulses during a painful contraction, but make sure you turn the machine down again after the contraction ends, or you won't continue to feel the benefit.

Benefits of TENS as a form of pain relief

TENS offers several benefits to pregnant women. You control exactly when you use it and for how long, and the process won't interfere with your labour. You can also keep moving while you use it. Crucially, the process is entirely safe for you and your new baby, and there are no problematic side effects. What's more, you don't need medical help using the machine – anyone can operate it.

These benefits lend themselves particularly well to home births. That aside, if you opt for a birthing pool, you cannot use this form of pain control. You can use the machine before you get in the water, but you must then disconnect it.

Getting a TENS machine

Expectant moms can choose from a range of TENS machines, and it's a good idea to look around for the right model. You don't have to buy a machine outright. Your hospital may have TENS machines available for you to use, or you can often hire them from a specialist supplier. Some women share a TENS machine to help manage the cost.

Cranial TENS machines are relatively new on the market. These devices work in a similar way to conventional TENS machines, except you apply the electrical pulses to your head. People with migraines can benefit from these machines, but some expectant moms now also use these devices. Talk to a local supplier, such as First Aid Kits Australia, for more information about the products available to you.

Expectant mums can choose from several methods of pain control. A TENS machine is a good option for women who don't want to use drugs during labour.

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