Manage labour pain with TENS

Trans-cutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a safe pain control option during labour for both mother and baby. Although it doesn’t take away pain entirely, you are less likely to report severe pain using this pain relief option.

The TENS device is small and sends electronic signals from nerves on the skin to partially block pain messages being sent to the brain. This raises the body’s pain threshold by releasing natural pain killers (endorphins and encephalins).

Benefits of using a TENS device

There are many benefits to using TENS to manage labour pain, and these are heightened when used together with breathing and relaxation techniques.

Benefits of using a TENS device include:

• it is easy to use at home and hospital when your contractions start
• it is fully controlled by the mother
• it does not cause no side effects or drowsiness
• it not causing harm to mother or baby when used correctly
• labour specific TENS devices may be pre-programmed for labour with boost control
• it clips onto clothing and is non-invasive, giving the mother freedom to move
• it can be used with other methods of pain relief and reduce the need for analgesic (pain medications).

When not to use a TENS machine

Do not:

• use a TENS machine without the approval of a health professional if you have:
  • active deep vein thrombosis, thrombophlebitis or epiphysis or tuberculosis
  • pacemaker or heart rhythm problem
  • electronic device in area or pacemaker
  • bleeding disorders
  • areas of reduced sensation or poor circulation or radiated tissue or regenerating nerves
  • broken skin or skin infection or cancer
• put electrodes over the eyes, neck, chest, heart or head
• use while pregnant for the thought it could bring on labour
• use in water
• use if you have difficulty understanding these instructions.

Using a TENS device during labour

1. Attach the self-adhesive electrode pads to either side of the mother’s spine just above the waist, close to the nerves that supply the uterus.
2. Place the second pair of electrodes just below the dimples in the lower back.
3. As the contraction starts, the mother can switch on the TENS device and turn up the intensity until she feels a strong tingling sensation, matching the strength of the contraction (but not painful).
4. Maintain this level of intensity until the contraction fades and then lower the level until the next contraction.

Where to get a TENS device

TENS devices can be hired from some physiotherapists and local pharmacies.

They can also be purchased on the internet – look for ‘obstetric TENS’ or ‘labour TENS’. If you have private health insurance, check with your insurer to see if you qualify for a rebate on purchasing a TENS machine.