A TENS machine is an ideal tool for labour pain control. Highly recommended if you have back labour or are trying to avoid an epidural. This is one of Bronwyn’s favorite doula tools!
A TENS machine is a small, portable, battery-operated device which is worn on the body. The box is attached by wires to sticky pads stuck to the skin. Small electrical pulses are transmitted to the body, like little electric shocks.
TENS machines are thought to work in two ways.
On a high pulse rate of 90-130 Hz (the normal method of use), the electrical impulses generated by the TENS machine interfere with and block pain messages sent to the brain. This is due to the gate control theory of pain. This proposes that there is a gate mechanism in the brain and spinal cord nerves (the central nervous system). When the gate is open, pain messages get through to the brain and we feel pain. When the gate is closed, these pain messages are blocked and we do not feel pain. TENS machines are thought to stimulate certain non-pain-carrying nerves and close the gate. In effect, the brain is busy dealing with the messages it receives quickly from the TENS machine, rather than the slower (more painful) pain signals that the body is receiving from elsewhere.
When the machine is set on a low pulse rate (2-5 Hz) it stimulates the body to make its own pain-easing chemicals called endorphins. These act a bit like morphine to block pain signals.
TENS stands for:
Transcutaneous (means through the skin) Electrical Nerve (pain signals reach the brain via nerves and the spinal cord) Stimulation.
If pain signals can be blocked by the tiny electrical shocks from the TENS machine then the brain will receive fewer signals from the source of the pain.
Our easy-to-use TENS offers maximum pain relief during labour and beyond. All settings are pre-programmed so there is no fuss in setting up. Can be used during early labour, active labour or the final stages of when you need extra pain relief.
200.00 deposit required*
Also available in our Birth Box rental
TENS units are distributed between 37 and 38 weeks of pregnancy and returned 1 week following birth
