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Rental of TENS unit includes actual unit, carrying case, 4 obstetrical patches, wires, batteries etc.
Unit is to picked up by appt approximately 2 weeks before due date and returned within 48 hours of delivery.
TENS for use in Labour
Why Use TENS?
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. TENS is a drug free, non-invasive pain relief method that is safe to use for both mother and baby. TENS is highly recommended by midwives and widely used during childbirth in the UK. It is a background level of pain relief to which other pain relief methods can be added, although some mothers use only TENS throughout their labour. There are no harmful side effects and as a result babies are born more awake and responsive than those whose mothers have used strong drugs for pain relief. This allows for quicker bonding and consequently breastfeeding difficulties are less likely.
How does TENS work?
Four electrodes (self-adhesive pads) are attached to the back. The TENS machine (a small battery operated unit) emits low frequency electronic impulses through the skin to block the pain signals carried to the brain, thereby reducing pain experienced. It also encourages the brain to produce the bodies own pain killing hormones, called endorphins. TENS machines for childbirth have two currents, or modes of operation. One current is used when resting between contractions and a stronger current is used during a contraction. A hand held boost switch is pressed to change the current between resting and contraction modes. The TENS machine is fully portable allowing the mother to be mobile throughout her labour.
When do I Start Using TENS?
TENS is most effective when it is used in early labour at home. The longer the delay the less effective the stimulator becomes. This allows for an early build up of endorphins.
What do I look for from an Obstetric TENS Machine?
TENS units designed for use in childbirth are duel channel. Each channel has a lead wire which attaches to two electrodes. The first two electrodes are placed on the middle part of the back and parallel to the spine. The second pair are placed on the lower part of the back, once again parallel to the spine. There will be a hand held boost control to switch between the two modes of operation. Some obstetric TENS machines are preset and some are fully adjustable. Fully adjustable machines allow the mother to increase the width, rate and the intensity of the electrical impulse in line with her individual requirements during labour.
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