TENS machine?

Question

Has anyone used a TENS MACHINE to help with pain relief in labour? Particularly in early labour? Would love to hear your experience / thoughts if so. Thanks

Answer

Hi Maggie. I live in Europe and TENS machines have been one way to relieve pain during labor here for many, many, many years now. From my own experience I can tell you that it helps during the early stages of labor as long as the electrodes are placed correctly. But, once contractions start getting stronger it doesn't really do much.

Answer

I'm a therapist certified in TENS/PENS and other modalities as well. I play it safe and never use this equipment on a pregnant woman, including myself. There is not enough research to say whether it's safe or not so I don't think it's worth the risk. Any good prenatal therapist or chiropractor will have plenty of other pain relief options for you. This is just my opinion though, so just educate yourself the best you can and choose the best option for you!

Answer

😳  I used it once for severe back pain during pregnancy.  But didn't have it during labor... 
Most of my labor pain was in my groin & really deep in my gut, so I don't think it would have helped anyway.

Answer

Ok. Confirmed with my chiropractor/former boss. He said no TENS below bra line. So your best bet for low back pain during labor is getting your birthing coach/husband/SO to give you a massage when possible.

Answer

I worked for a chiropractor for several years and we never used a TENS on our pregnant patients with exception to up high on the neck. (Although I used mine on my neck for a migraine last month and stopped it within minutes as it caused an uncomfortable sensation down my spine so I didn't want to chance it)
I'm not sure about the delivery portion, but I'll ask my former boss and let you know.

TENS machine?

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