The TENS Machine—Relief that’s Electric
What’s a TENS unit?
A TENS unit is a light-weight, battery-powered device that delivers electrical impulses through the surface of your skin. The acronym stands for: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.
People use TENS units to manage different kinds of discomfort and pain, but one of its most popular uses is for relief during labour. In fact, in the UK, all expectant people are provided access to a TENS unit for use in early labour.
Here’s how the TENS unit works.
Your brain can only perceive so much stimulation at a time. So while it’s busy processing the minor discomforts caused by the electrical impulses from the TENS, it can ignore some greater discomforts you may also be experiencing—like contractions!
The TENS unit connects with wires to four little sticky electrodes that you apply to your back. The device hangs on a lanyard around your neck, so you have easy access to the control buttons. You manage the machine’s output in relation to your contractions, deciding whether you need more or less—and when.
TENS works best if it’s begun early in labour.
Start it before your pain has ramped up. If you want to take advantage of the particular relief provided by TENS, you should connect it early in labour, and adjust the settings as your labour intensifies.
Yes, I have a TENS unit.*
There are multiple TENS units available online, but my clients have use of the model that’s specifically designed and safety-tested for labour: The Elle TENS. The Elle TENS even has a “boost” button that allows you to meet each contraction with an additional power surge. If you’re using my TENS unit, I can provide a demonstration at our second prenatal visit.
I received my TENS training from super-experienced Seattle doula Sharon Muza (fun fact for birth nerds: Muza was the one who named and first popularized The Miles Circuit—how cool is that?).
Safety first:
Birthing people don’t need a prescription or medical “permission” to use a TENS unit—but, like so many things in pregnancy, you should let your provider know that TENS relief is in your plans, in case they have any concerns. And, as always, you should follow the safety guidelines.
Other things to know:
TENS units can only be used on skin that’s unbroken and dry. So, don’t use on skin that is injured or irritated, and don’t use in or near water. TENS and the tub/shower do not mix!
TENS units should not be used if you have: epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures; a pacemaker or other implant. TENS units may not be suitable for pregnant people experiencing eclampsia or pre-eclampsia. Always discuss with your provider.
TENS units shouldn’t be used before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
TENS units should be used with proper positioning for labour (four electrodes positioned correctly on the back) and never over your pregnant abdomen.
Check out a demonstration on how to use the Elle TENS safely and most effectively, here.
*Available on a first-client-in-labour, first-served basis!