What is a TENS Machine? A Drug-Free Birth Option
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Table of Contents
Introduction: The Promise of a TENS machine
Pain during labour is a universal experience and is often felt in different ways for different women. While there are various methods to manage it, many mothers seek natural alternatives to medication. As expectant parents seek holistic approaches, the allure of TENS machines lies in their ability to offer a natural, non-invasive solution for managing labour pains. Within this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover the remarkable potential of TENS machine technology, discovering its ability to grant both comfort and control during childbirth. Join us in unravelling the promise that TENS machines hold in revolutionizing the childbirth experience, empowering individuals with a newfound choice in their pain management journey
How TENS machines work: unravelling the science
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive pain relief method that utilises a small, battery operated, portable electronic device that operates by delivering mild electrical impulses to the body through electrode pads placed on the skin. These electrodes, often adhesive pads, are strategically placed, typically near the site of discomfort to provide localised relief. The electrical impulses generated by the TENS machine work by stimulating the nerves in the area where the electrode pads are applied. This stimulation serves multiple purposes in mitigating pain perception.
"You don't always need a plan. Sometime you just need to breathe, trust, let go, and see what happens."
TENS machine use during childbirth: A natural pain relief alternative
Childbirth is an incredibly transformative experience and the journey through it often involves various forms of pain management. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) has emerged as a natural and non-invasive method for pain relief during labour. In the realm of childbirth, where options can sometimes feel limited, TENS machines stand out as a viable alternative that doesn't involve medications or medical interventions. Exploring the effectiveness, ease of use, and benefits of TENS machines in alleviating labour pains sheds light on its role as a promising aid for expectant mothers seeking a more natural approach to managing discomfort during childbirth.
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Benefits and Contraindications of TENS for expectant mothers: empowerment and comfort
Using a TENS machine during labour offers several benefits:
1. Non invasive pain relief:
A TENS machine provides a non-invasive method of pain relief, employing electrical pulses to stimulate nerves and disrupt pain signals without the needs for medication or invasive procedures
2. Natural pain management:
A TENS machine is a drug free approach, appealing to those preferring natural methods for pain management during childbirth.
3. Control and empowerment:
TENS machines are typically handheld, allowing the user to control the intensity of the electrical pulses, providing a sense of control and empowerment during labour
4. Mobility and Flexibility:
Since TENS machines are portable, they allow freedom of movement during labour, enabling the individual too change positions and remain mobile, which can aide in labour progress and comfort
5. Safe for mother and baby:
A TENS machine is generally considered safe for both the mother and baby, as it doesn’t involve drugs or invasive procedures
6. Reduction in pain perception:
While not eliminating pain entirely, TENS machines can reduce the perception of pain by interfering with the pain singles being sent to the brain, as previously mentioned
While TENS machines are generally safe and well tolerated, there are also some contraindications and considerations to be aware of when considering its use:
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Pacemakers or Implanted devices:
TENS machines may interfere with the functioning o pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, or other electronic devices. It’s crucial to avoid using TENS if you have these implants without prior consultation with a healthcare professional
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Epilepsy or seizure disorders:
The electrical impulses from a TENS machine might trigger seizures in individuals with epilepsy or certain seizure disorders. Precaution should be take and usage discussed with a healthcare provider in these cases
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Pregnancy locations:
Avoid using the TENS machine of the abdomen during the first trimester of pregnancy, especially near the developing fetus, as there is limited research on its effects during this crucial stage
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Active labour near water:
TENS machines should not be used by someone actively labouring in water, such as a birthing pool, bath, or shower, due to the risk of electrical hazard and electrocution
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Undiagnosed Pain:
Using a TENS machine to mask undiagnosed pain can potentially delay proper diagnoses and treatment of underlying conditions. It’s more important to determine the cause of pain before using TENS
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Skin condition or sensitivities: Individuals with skin conditions or sensitivities may experience skin irritation or adverse reactions at the electrode sites used for TENS machine
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Near mucous membranes or eyes:
Avoid placing electrodes near sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, throat, over mucous membranes or broken skin.
"The way a culture treats women in birthh is a good indicator of how well women and their contributions to society are valued and honored."
Further Readings
→ Comparing TENS: What's the difference between devices?
→ TENS machines beyond the birth: Other applications and benefits
Applying the TENS for birth: Techniques and Best Practices
Mastering the art of using the TENS during childbirth involves a blend of technique and understanding best practices. The key lies not just in attaching the electrode pads but in strategic placement on the lower back, strategically targeting areas affected by labour pains. Experimentation and practice is vital - finding the sweet spot for electrode positioning that offers the most relief is an individual journey. Labouring women may need help from another person to position the pads correctly, to avoid them covering the spine or overlapping. Equally important is fine-tuning the intensity of electrical pulses: a delicate balance between effectiveness and comfort. Introducing the TENS machine early in labour allows for a gradual build-up, easing the experience as contractions intensify.
TENS machine selection guide: Finding the right fit
At TENS Hire Perth we only stock the Elle TENS machines. The Elle TENS machine range is Australia's most trusted, reliable and recognised electrotherapy devices, for labour, incontinence, general pain relief and injury recovery.
The Elle TENS have 3 devices available. See the image to compare their features and read more for more information.
The majority of our stock is the Elle TENS 2, however we do carry small amount of the Elle TENS and Elle TENS Plus units. The device you will recieve for hire will depend on stock levels at the time.
Real Experiences: Testimonials on using TENS during birth
"Pick up and drop off was simple and easy and Laura is lovely. The instructions provided with the TENS machine are clear and simple to follow. We did one practice run before labour which I strongly recommend. Thankyou for what you do supplying to birthing women" - Tymikka
"Highly recommend. Was a massive help for us through early labour and during active labour. Easy pick up and drop off instruction and location. Package was easy to read and follow" - Chanon
"Ordered in the afternoon after seeing how affordable it was! TENS was ready later that afternoon, lots of options for pickup, great kit with easy to use instructions. Worked brilliantly during labour, birth and postpartum. Highly recommend" - Sophie
"Super easy pick up and drop off, great customer service, reasonably priced would definitely recommend and my wife will definitely be using again for future labours" - Eli
"Whenever and however you give birth, your experience will impact your emotions, your mind, your body and your spirit for the rest of your life."
Conclusion: Embracing a drug free birth with TENS machine technology
While a TENS machine might not completely eliminate labour pains, it can significantly reduce its intensity, offering a more manageable and comfortable experience for many mothers. Always remember to consult with health care providers before using any pain relief method during childbirth.
In the quest for natural pain management during labour, TENS machines have emerged as a promising solution, providing relied without the need for medication. Their non-invasive nature and ease of use make them an appealing choice for women seeking alternative methods for a smoother childbirth experience.
Further Readings
→ Applying the TENS for birth: Techniques and Best Practices
→ Benefits and Contraindications of TENS for expectant mothers: Empowerment and Comfort
The Author: Laura Ward
Laura is a dedicated midwife with one decade of experience guiding women on their journey to motherhood. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of supporting numerous women through various birthing experiences. These experiences have deepened her appreciation for the importance of women feeling heard, in control, respected and informed throughout the childbirth process
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in the TENS hire?
- 1x Elle TENS device
- 4x Single use electrode pads
- 1x neck strap
- instructions for use
- 2x AA spare batteries
- fabric carry case
Which TENS machine will I receive?
Depending on availability, you will receive one of the following devices: Elle TENS Elle TENS 2 or Elle TENS Plus All three are very similar in functionality and deliver the same level of pain relief and the same boost feature for contractions during labour
When shouldn't I use a TENS machine?
Never use a TENS machine under the following circumstances: - Without talking to a midwife or doctor first - Before you are 36 weeks pregnant - When you’re in a shower, bath, or birth pool, or any form of water - If you have broken skin or a healing scar where you want to place the pads - If you have a cardiac pacemaker or a heart rhythm problem - If you have pain that you don’t think is labour pain. See your doctor or midwife if this is the case. - On another part of your body other than your lower back as pictures in the instruction manual.
Do I still pay for the TENS machine hire if I didn't end up using it?
Yes, unfortunately if your circumstances change or you didn’t use your TENS machine we are unable to issue refunds once the machine has been dispatched. If it has not been dispatched via mail or collected from us then we can issue a full refund.
When should I order my Elle TENS for labour?
We would love you to have your TENS ready to go by 34-36 weeks. This gives you peace of mind that you have your labour tool kit ready to go for when your baby decides it’s time!
Can I use my Elle TENS in conjunction with other pain relief options during labour?
Of course! Your Elle TENS can be used on its own all the way until you give birth, or with other forms of pain relief as needed. Just remmber not to use it in water
Should I test the TENS machine prior to labour?
We definitely highly recommend this! You can test your TENS by placing the electrodes on your arm and turning it to a low setting. You can also ask your birth partner to place the electrodes on your lower back and feel the senations for a few minutes. This will help you get a sense of how the machine feels or troubleshoot any issues that may arise Note: make sure to pop the electrodes back on the plastic they came on when not in use so they are in top condition for when you need them again - placing them on other mediums will make them lose their adhesive properties
1 comment
I have learned about TENs machines and heard many good things, although I did not use one. I had the pleasure of Laura as a midwife and honestly the most amazing and kind fun lady to walk the planet, I recommend her and all her services to anybody and everybody!