TENS anyone?

Dorothy and I are proud to be among the first DONA doulas to receive training and be granted approval in bringing TENS back to birth in the U.S. TENS has been around for almost 50yrs and is frequently used in Canada, Great Britain and Australia as a comfort measure during labor.

So how does it work?

A mild electrical energy is diffused through 4 strategically placed pads on the laboring woman's back.

When used in early labor, the lower settings help stimulate endorphin production making the woman's intensifying contractions more manageable. As labor progresses, the higher settings help to block pain signals.

How effective is it?

Like any type of pain management, there are varying levels of relief based on numerous factors. That said, in a 1998 study, women who used the TENS unit were 37-40% less likely to use pain medication and those that did, had progressed 2-4cm further before requesting it.

How does this compare to narcotics and/or epidurals?

Unlike these pharmacological options:

-TENS is started in early labor-while the woman is still at home.

-TENS is controlled BY THE WOMAN, giving her a sense of control.

-TENS does not impede mobility; it can be used in any position and in conjunction with other comfort measures-it will not slow labor.

-TENS leaves you clear-minded.

Is TENS safe?

YES. There are no side effects and there have been no reports of harm to mother or baby.

Dorothy and I each own a unit and are excited to be able to offer this option to our clients. To help facilitate acceptance among medical personnel, each client is to present her careprovider with a TENS information and consent form prior to her birth.