How to Use TENS for Maternity and Labour Pain

Having a Safe and Natural Drug-Free Labour

Nov 5, 2008

Many women feel that a natural labour makes giving birth less invasive and more of an intimate experience. Using TENS can support new mothers to achieve this.

TENS is a safe and natural alternative to drugs, helping pregnant women cope with labour pains naturally. The TENS system enables women to stay in control of their pain management, and many systems are light and portable, and available for rental by chemists and pharmacies.

What is TENS?

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. It works by sending soothing pulses through the skin and along the fibres of the nerves. This stimulates the body to produce its own pain-relieving endorphins naturally, (hormones), and also prevents pain signals from reaching and registering with the brain.

The Safety of TENS

TENS has been used for many years as a natural alternative to drugs during labour. There is no evidence to suggest that it could ever be harmful to either the mother or baby if it is used to combat labour pains.

What are the Benefits of TENS?

Unlike many drugs which are used for labour pain relief, TENS does not cause people to feel drowsy or confused, and it has no effects on the new baby. TENS does not have any after-effects at all, so it is a helpful alternative to other existing pain remedies. TENS is also safe to use in conjunction with other methods of pain relief, to support the existing options and decrease discomfort in labour.

TENS is relatively easy to use, either at home or in hospital. The device works by attaching electrode pads to the lower back and linking them to the unit. Digital units have a button which can be pressed to start the system working.

When Should TENS be Avoided?

In the following circumstances, the pregnant woman should consult her doctor or midwife before using the TENS system:

It is also wise to consult a doctor if the pregnant woman has epilepsy or is very young.

TENS is a favoured method of pain relief because of its non-invasive method of operation which does not carry any side effects, and its ease of use.

If someone is interested in renting a TENS pain relief system, she can speak to their midwife or gP, or pop to their local chemist to find out more. TENS systems can be rented for around £30 for up to a month at a time.

The copyright of the article How to Use TENS for Maternity and Labour Pain in Childbirth - Labour & Delivery is owned by Jen Syrkiewicz. Permission to republish How to Use TENS for Maternity and Labour Pain in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.