TENS Units and How they Help During Labor
In labor expecting mothers seek various methods to manage and reduce pain and discomfort. So far we’ve discussed pain management in general, and music as a pain management tool. Now we will be discussing the TENS unit.
A TENS unit is a popular choice for women wanting non-medical pain management solutions. We are going to delve into the world of TENS units, exploring what they are, how they work, and their benefits during labor.
What is a TENS Unit?
TENS, which stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, is a non-invasive, battery powered device designed to provide pain relief by sending mild electrical impulses through the surface of your skin to nerve fibers. These impulses help to block pain signals from reaching the brain, thereby reducing the perception of pain.
How Does it Work?
TENS units consist of electrodes that are placed strategically on the body, targeting specific areas of discomfort. When powered on, the device sends electrical pulses through these electrodes, stimulating the nerves and triggering the body's natural pain-blocking mechanisms. This stimulation also prompts the release of endorphins in the body, naturally enhancing the pain management.
Benefits During Labor:
Non-Medical Pain Relief: TENS units offer a drug-free alternative for managing labor pain, making them an appealing option for mothers seeking natural childbirth experiences.
Adjustable Settings: Most TENS units come with adjustable settings to control the intensity and frequency of the electrical pulses. This allows the mother to control her comfort level according to her pain threshold.
Portable and Convenient: TENS units are compact and portable, making them easy to use and carry during labor. They can be easily worn, allowing mothers to move around and maintain mobility during labor.
Immediate Relief: TENS units provide almost immediate pain relief, offering mothers a quick relief solution during labor contractions.
Minimal Side Effects: Unlike pharmacological pain relief methods, TENS units have minimal side effects and are generally safe for use during labor. They do not interfere with labor progression or the baby's well-being.
Incorporating TENS Units Into Your Birth Plan:
When considering the use of TENS units during labor, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider or a qualified childbirth professional. They can provide guidance on proper usage, placement of electrodes, and integration of TENS therapy into your birth plan. You should familiarize yourself with the device and the process and practice use before your labor begins. If you don’t have a TENS unit, your doula may have one available to you (I do), or you can purchase them on Amazon.
So now that we know what a TENS unit is, what it does and its benefits, let’s take a look at some of the research on how it has affected labor pains.
In a 2021 study, researchers looked at the effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation during the first stage of labor. In this study, 326 low risk pregnant women who anticipated spontaneous vaginal delivery were assigned to either the experimental group (TENS units) or the control group (routine obstetric care). TENS therapy was initiated at the beginning of active labor (4-cm dilation) until the second stage of labor, pushing and birth.
The pain scores were recorded immediately after randomization, 30, 60 and 120 minutes after the therapy and 2-24 hours postpartum. It was found that the experimental group had a statistically significantly lower pain score. The experimental group had a shorter active labor phase, but no significant difference was shown in the time of the second and third stages of labor. Nor were there significant differences between the groups regarding the Apgar scores, oxytocin usage and postpartum hemorrhage. The study conclusion indicates that TENS therapy can be used as a non-pharmacologic method to manage, or reduce pain and shorten the active phase of labor duration.
Let TENS be your Secret Weapon.
TENS units offer a non-invasive, drug-free option for managing labor pain, providing mothers with an additional tool in their childbirth toolkit. By understanding how TENS units work and their benefits during labor, expectant mothers can make informed decisions about incorporating this form of pain management into their birth plans. As part of a holistic approach to childbirth, TENS units empower mothers to navigate the challenges of labor with greater comfort and confidence. So, plug in, power up, and let the dance of labor begin – with TENS units leading the beat.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. Please discuss all medical concerns with your care provider. This content is for educational and informational purposes only.
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Hi, I’m Sierra, a doula with a passion for physiological birth. My mission is to help moms, like you, gain the confidence to wholeheartedly trust their bodies to bring their babies into the world.
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