TENS - Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
1. Drug free pain relief in labour – what is it?
2. What does it feel like?
3. Are there any side effects?
4. When should I stop using or remove the machine?
5. When should I hire the TENS machine?
6. What if I go over my due date?
7. Can I use the TENS machine for backache?
8. Where do I position the pads on my back?
9. Can I test the machine before labour?
Drug free pain relief in labour – what is it?
The Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine uses a small
battery operated unit to provide a non-invasive and drug free method of helping
to control labour pain. You will receive a small unit with a digital screen,
two wires, four electrode pads and a hand held booster button. The four self
adhesive pads are placed on your back and the main unit clipped to your belt
or waistband. With the booster button in your hand you are then able to control
the level of pain relief you require. The Labour TENS can be an effective technique
for pain relief in over 80% of births with no side effects. With a TENS machine
mild electrical impulses are transmitted through the skin via electrode pads,
this modifies the body’s perception of pain. The Birth TENS machine has a hand
held booster button to change the stimulation frequency from low to high. The
low frequency should be used for resting periods in between contractions and
the high frequency as soon as a contraction is felt (20% more intense). Evidence
shows that to achieve the best results the TENS should be used from the onset
of labour. In order to build up endorphins (the body’s natural pain relievers)
the TENS needs to be in place for at least 40 minutes before the full effectiveness
can be felt.
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What does it feel like?
Most people describe the sensation of the TENS machine as tingling or pins and
needles.
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Are there any side effects?
It is not thought that using TENS in labour has any adverse effects on either
you or your baby. You are free to move around while using it and you can use
it in conjunction with gas and air. However you must remember it cannot be used
if you want to try a birthing pool for pain relief and you can’t use it if you
have a cardiac pacemaker.
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When should I stop using or remove the machine?
When you remove the machine is completely up to you. It can be used in conjunction
with gas and air to provide effective pain relief, and can be used for the duration
of your labour. Often the effectiveness of the TENS machine is only realised
once it has been removed.
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When should I hire the TENS machine?
It is a good idea to book your TENS machine in early pregnancy (about 25-30
weeks) to avoid disappointment. It will then be dispatched in time for your
37th week. Do not worry if you have not ordered a TENS machine and you are nearing
your due date just select immediate dispatch and we will dispatch the machine
for delivery in 2 working days.
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What if I go over my due date?
Do not worry as no extra charges will be incurred. When you hire the TENS you
will be given a return date of 3 weeks after your due date. This should give
enough time if your baby is overdue. If you do require more time please just
let us know.
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Can I use the TENS machine for backache?
You can use the TENS machine for back ache once you have reached 37 weeks in
your pregnancy. Before this time you must check with your midwife. Replacement
electrode pads can be purchased for £5.00 (incl postage and packaging) should
you require them
Please allow 1-5 working days for delivery.
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Where do I position the pads on my back?
Try to get help when positioning the pads. The electrode placement pads need
to be positioned 40-50mm above and below an imaginary line drawn with the navel.
75mm apart on either side of the spine.
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Can I test the machine before labour?
Yes definitely, we would recommend you familiarise yourself with the machine
and how to use it. Do not worry about the adhesiveness of the pads as they can
re-used several times (ensure no oils or creams are present on the skin). To
test the machine you will need two pads, one wire and the boost button. Attach
the wire to the machine (either side) along with the boost button. Attach the
two pads to the terminals at the ends of the wire. Place the pads on your forearm
(same arm). Turn on the machine and gently lift the level to about 6-10. You
should start to feel a light tingling in your fingers. Once you have tested
the machine remove all the wires and don’t forget to place the protective covers
back on electrodes to prevent them from drying out. Pack the machine away carefully
and wait for the big day.
Please note that we are only able to hire these units within the UK.
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To hire TENS machine please click
here
To purchase a TENS machine please
click here |
