Using a TENS Unit in Labor

Are you looking for a more natural way to relieve labor pain?

With more people wanting to step away from using pain medications in labor, finding an alternative has become even more important. In today’s blog post I’m going to talk about using a labor specific TENS unit, its benefits, and where you can get one.

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We live in a medicalized world, especially when it comes to labor and delivery. Of course, medicine has a time and a place, but many people are choosing to have more natural birth experiences. A TENS unit does a wonderful job bridging the gap between “natural birth” and pain relief.

A TENS unit can provide you with almost instant pain relief during contractions. For a more natural way to manage your pain during labor, without the need of “stronger stuff” (like an epidural), a TENS unit could be an option to explore!

What is a TENS Unit?

The term “TENS” stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. This is a big term that simply means that the unit uses a small amount of electrical stimulation as pain relief therapy. It uses both the gateway theory and the endorphin theory to effectively control labor pain.

This is a small handheld unit that is controlled only by the person using it. The unit has wires that are attached to pads that are placed on your upper and lower back. The unit admits small stimulation through the pads that can be adjusted to help block out the pain of contractions.

A labor specific unit is unique from any other TENS unit available on the market. It allows for individual controls on the upper and lower pads. It also has a BOOST button that admits continuous stimulation during a contraction, which greatly increases its effectiveness in labor.

Benefits of Using One

Using a TENS unit during labor is extremely beneficial. The main benefit for using a TENS unit is the fact that it’s a non-pharmaceutical (or more natural) form of pain relief.

Here are a few more benefits of using one:

• Allows you freedom of movement

• Allows you to feel a sense of control over your labor

• Is not a drug so it will not effect baby post delivery

• Is a fantastic way to relieve back labor

• Can be used at home before you go to the hospital

But is it Safe?

Short answer, yes! However, it’s important to use the unit correctly. When used correctly, TENS units have been shown to be effective and safe to both the parent and the baby.

So how can you stay safe when using a TENS unit?

• You must be at least 37 weeks gestation (unless already in labor)

• You cannot use it if you have epilepsy or a pacemaker

• You do not have preeclampsia (due to potential seizures)

• You cannot use it in water or with an epidural

• You must not place the pads on your abdomen

It’s also important to know that not all TENS units are made for labor. As mentioned above, labor TENS units are unique. Not only do they have special features (such as individual controls and a BOOST button) but they are also safe guarded by not doubling as an EMS unit.

The term EMS stands for Electronic Muscle Stimulation, which can cause muscle contractions. This is not safe for baby and should never be used. Many of the TENS units found online are also EMS units. It is highly recommend to only use labor specific units for this reason.

Here is a document that lists studies done on using TENS in labor: TENS Bibliography

Where can I get one?

This will depend on the type and brand of TENS unit you plan to buy. Again, it is recommended to get a labor specific one to keep you and baby safe. I personally recommend using an Elle TENS unit.

Purchase one here: Tens for Labor (aff link)

Another way to get your hands on a TENS unit for labor would be to rent one locally. I offer TENS unit rentals to local families. Clients receive FREE rentals.

Why rent a unit?

Buying a labor TENS unit typically costs over $100 (not including shipping). So unless you have plans to use it outside of labor, it may not be worth the investment. Renting a unit is much more cost effective.

The biggest benefit is that you get personalized help with learning how to use the unit, placing the pads, and making sure you meet all of the safety criteria. As a doula who is certified in using TENS during labor, I make sure to walk you though the use of the unit and placement of the pads. In addition, I also provide printed instructions for future reference!

Rent a TENS unit here: TENS unit rentals

Now that you understand what a TENS unit is and why you should use one during labor, go ahead and order (or rent) one today!

Are you planning to use a TENS unit for your labor? I would love to have you share about it by emailing me at therocdoula@gmail.com

If you’ve found this blog post to be helpful, please share it with others so that they can also benefit from knowing about the use of a TENS unit in labor.

Hi, I’m Jocelyn.

I’m a doula and breastfeeding educator in Rochester, NY.
Follow me for all things pregnancy, birth, and lactation support.