TENS for Labor Pain
How transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can help during contractions
What Is TENS
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. A small, battery-powered device sends mild electrical pulses through pads placed on your partner's lower back. The pulses interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain and stimulate the body to produce natural endorphins. It is non-invasive, drug-free, and your partner controls the intensity with a handheld trigger.
How It Helps During Labor
TENS is most useful in early and active labor, especially for back pain. Many people find it gives them a sense of control because they can turn up the intensity themselves when a contraction starts. It does not eliminate the pain, but it can reduce the intensity and delay or reduce the need for other pain medication. Research suggests TENS is most effective for lower back pain during the first stage.
Setting It Up
If your partner wants to use TENS, arrange it before labor begins. Some hospitals have TENS units available. Others require you to bring your own. Rentals are available online and through some midwives and doula organizations. The pads are placed on either side of the lower spine, outside the bony part of the spine. Test the placement and sensation before labor so your partner knows what to expect.
How Your Partner Uses It
The TENS unit has a continuous stimulation mode and a boost mode. Your partner can use the continuous mode between contractions for a steady, low-level pulse. When a contraction starts, they press the boost button for stronger stimulation that peaks with the contraction and then fades. Some units allow you to control the boost from a separate remote, which means you can trigger the extra intensity when you see a contraction beginning.
When to Stop Using TENS
TENS is safe to use through most of labor, but you may need to remove the pads if your partner wants to use a tub or shower, if the care team needs to place monitoring belts on the belly, or if an epidural is placed. Remove the pads gently and dry the skin. There are no lasting side effects.