Use a TENS unit for drug free pain management during labor

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TENS for labor, a drug free option for labor contractions

TENS units are commonly used in the UK, Australia and Canada as a method for pain relief during labor. TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, and has successfully been used for many years by pregnant women. This is an awesome choice for Mama as a safe drug-free option for pain relief that is applied in early labor. Whether your planning a medicated or un-medicated birth, Austin Childbirth is proud to offer the ELLE Tens unit specifically designed for use during labor. And the best part is....if you hire us as your Doula, you will have a TENS unit to use for your birth!

For more information: Read this great article, TENS: The "Natural Labor Tool" No One Talks About

How a Tens unit is it applied

At the onset of labor, you'll simply apply the four pads to her back as shown in the accompanying instructions and switch the TENS machine on. The unit is small and portable.  You'll wear it comfortably from a lanyard around your neck.  When you turn the unit on, you will feel a pleasant pulsing sensation. This will help to raise the level of her pain relieving endorphins. When experiencing a contraction, you'll press the booster button for the extra surge of power needed to combat the pain. When the contraction ends, you'll press the booster button again - it is that simple! The unit comes with all necessary pads and leads, a neck lanyard and and batteries.

How does a TENS for maternity work?  

Firstly, the Gate Control Theory of Pain - introducing pleasant stimuli over rides the painful stimuli and secondly, the stimulation increases endorphin production in the patient - our body’s natural pain killer.

What are the Benefits of a TENS unit for labor:

Studies have shown that TENS shortens the length of labor, postpones the administration of an epidural, may be particularly beneficial for back pain, has fewer babies in the NICU and perhaps most importantly increases patient satisfaction significantly. Well over half the women who used TENS said they would use it again!  Having a TENS unit definitely gives moms a sense of control especially with the ability to use the boost button during a contraction!

The Elle TENS is so easy to use. The Elle TENS is a dual channel unit that allows for separate intensities on upper and lower pads.  All the settings are pre-set so there is no fuss in setting up.

The Elle TENS is so easy to use. All the settings are pre-set so there is no fuss in setting up. The Elle TENS uses the latest Opti-Max technology.

What is Optimax? An extra pulse of pain combatting power, often used in the final stages of labor - when you most need it.

Features and Benefits of The Elle TENS

• Pre set modes for ease of use
• Integrated boost button when you are having a contraction
• Optimax technology for extra power
• Uses 4 large pads
• Easy to read user display
• Neck cord for mobility
• Can be used for post natal pain

Precautions to mention:

Do not use with  a cardiac pacemaker or with a seizure disorder.  TENS unit CANNOT be used in water!  You would need to remove the pads before getting in the bath/shower and then re-apply after.

It is very important to mention that for maximum benefit, TENS needs to be started in early labor before contractions become overwhelmingly strong.   (This is due to the Gate Control Theory of Pain.)

This photo below shows proper placement of pads:

Tens units for rental anywhere in the USA!

Easily and quickly rent a TENS unit from Austin Childbirth right here!  Rentals are for 5 weeks!  This is a streamlined process.  Just fill out the online consent form, pick a day you would like your rental to start and pay by any major credit card and a TENS will be sent to you by priority mail with a return box and postage paid label included.  If you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to email us right here!

READY USE A TENS UNIT?  Access the TENS rental and agreement info here!

We have the Elle TENS unit available for rent