How is TENS helpful in labor?
TENS is used in labor to reduce back pain while allowing the laboring person freedom to move and walk. TENS was developed as an application of the Gate Control Theory of Pain. This theory states that the awareness of pain can be reduced by increasing pleasant or innocuous stimuli, like massage or heat on sore muscles or the electrical impulses of the TENS device. Pleasant or innocuous stimuli travel to the brain faster than pain stimuli do, and therefore close the “gate” to the pain. ​TENS also increases the production of endorphins, the body's natural form of pain killer.
What are the advantages of TENS? The laboring person controls the TENS unit themself. It can provide pain management while allowing freedom of movement and clarity of mind, unlike most pain medications. TENS can be used with other comfort measures and may help to postpone or avoid the use of an epidural. There is no reported harm to parent or baby as a result of TENS use. Many laboring people have found that using a TENS unit during labor can decrease back pain and decrease the need for or likelihood of using pain medication.
TENS FAQ
ARE THERE ANY CONTRAINDICATIONS TO USING A TENS UNIT?
There are a few medical conditions that make the TENS unit not a good choice for some people. TENS should not be used in the absence of labor before full term (37 weeks). It should not be used on inflamed or injured skin or over a rash (psoriasis or eczema). People with a seizure disorder or a cardiac pacemaker should not use TENS. Talk to your care provider to confirm that the TENS unit is a safe choice for you.​
​
WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE OBSERVED WHILE USING A TENS UNIT?
The TENS unit should not be placed in water or near high heat. It should not be dropped on hard surfaces or used near flammable gas. It should only be used with specified stimulating pads placed on the body as directed.
​
IS THERE A CHARGE FOR USING YOUR TENS UNIT?
I offer the use of a TENS unit as part of my doula package - there is no additional cost for you as my client. TENS units will be available for rent for non-doula clients in the near future.
​
SHOULD I BUY MY OWN?
You can buy your own but many are not tested or approved for use during pregnancy. Make you are sure you are purchasing a device made specifically for obstetrical use and tested for such a purpose. Or you can rent one from me!
IS IT HARD TO USE?
It is not difficult to use but it will be helpful to test it out together prior to labor to know what it feels like and how it works.
​
CAN I USE A TENS UNIT WITH AN EPIDURAL?
If you get an epidural then you will stop using the TENS unit at that time. The TENS unit is not used in areas or under circumstances where you do not have full sensation.
​
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE WHEN I AM USING IT?
Most people report that having a TENS unit feels like pins and needles or your body part is “falling asleep”. Others have described it as tingly, vibrating, or pulsing.
​
WHEN DO I USE IT?
A TENS unit is most effective when you start during the early stages of your labor, but you can use it anytime. You need to stop using it if you labor in water or have an epidural.
​
CAN I USE IT IN THE WATER?
No, electricity and water don’t mix. We can take it off and then put it on again when you get out of the water.
​
CAN I PUT IN ON MY LOWER ABDOMEN WHERE I FEEL THE CONTRACTIONS?
The TENS unit should not be used on the abdomen during pregnancy or labor.
​
CAN I USE IT DURING PREGNANCY?
The TENS unit is for after 37 weeks, when you are in labor.
​
CAN I USE IT AFTER BIRTH?
Only on the advice of your clinician. There has been some research that indicates that a TENS unit helps with healing and reducing pain around postpartum cesarean scar.
​
DOES IT INTERFERE WITH FETAL MONITORING?
No, it does not and there is no known risk to the baby