TENS machines and their use in managing labour pain

Abstract

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machines have been used in medical practice since the 1970s, initially to combat chronic lower back pain. With a rise in interest of non-pharmacological methods of pain management during labour, the TENS machine has become increasingly used to manage labour pain. TENS machines are small and portable. They work by transmitting a controlled level of electrical stimulation into the skin via electrodes, which enables the blocking of painful impulses at the dorsal horn of the spinal column. It also stimulates the body to produce natural endorphins and enkephalins. With these attributes a TENS machine is a method of pain relief whereby there are no adverse side-effects to mother and/or child. It is non-invasive, can be used in the home and controlled by the woman. There is however little scientific evidence to support TENS machines as a stand alone form of pain control throughout labour. So far it is seen as better suited to being used in the very early stages of labour and then combined with either pharmacological methods or entonox.