Q: What is TENS pain relief?
A:
TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. This is a technique involving low-current electrical stimulation of nerves in the back. This causes a buzzing sensation and reduces the pain of labour. It is effective until about half way through the first stage of labour. The TENS unit is a small hand held monitor which has electrode leads coming out of it. These are attached to disposable adhesive pads that stick to your lower back. When you feel a contraction coming, you press the booster on the TENS device. This helps ease the pain of labour. The Birth Company can provide you with information about hiring a TENS machine.
