The Use of TENS During Labour
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine can be used as a drug free method of pain control during labor. TENS uses electrical stimulation of the nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. It can also stimulate the production of endorphins, the bodies natural pain killing hormone.
TENS can be used during labor to help control the pain. The electrodes, usually four, are placed on the back and connected to the battery operated TENS machine. The intensity of the electrical stimulation can be controlled by the user and can be increased as the pain level increases. the labouring woman is thus in complete control of the device.
During labour the TENS machine is used in two ways. A high pulse rate is used during contractions to block the pain and a lower pulse rate between contractions which stimulates the release of endorphins by the body. This in turn also helps to block the pain of the contractions. It is most effective if the TENS machine is used from the very beginnings of labor to encourage the early stimulation of endorphins. Once the contractions become more intense application of the electrical current is then more effective than waiting to use the machine some time after the start of labor.
Advantages of Using TENS During Labor
- TENS is drug free
- TENS is under the laboring womans complete controlled
- TENS units are portable so the woman can move around during labour
- TENS has no side effects
Safety Issues
- TENS should not be used before the 37th week of pregnancy
- TENS cannot be used in water so cannot be used in a birthing pool or when showering
- TENS cannot be used if you have a heart pacemaker or heart condition
- TENS should not be used if you suffer from epilepsy
- TENS should be used for about forty five minutes before induction of labour