TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) for labour pain.

Abstract

Because TENS is applied inconsistently and not always in line with optimal TENS application theory, this may explain why TENS for labour pain appears to be effective in some individuals and not in others. This article reviews TENS theory, advises upon optimal TENS application for labour pain and discusses some of the limitations of TENS research on labour pain. TENS application for labour pain may include TENS applied to either side of the lower spine, set to 200 mus pulse duration and 100 pulses per second. As pain increases, TENS intensity should be increased and as pain decreases, TENS intensity should be reduced to maintain a strong but pain free intensity of stimulation. This application may particularly reduce back pain during labour.

• Authors: Richard Francis
• Journal: The practising midwife (Pract Midwife) Vol. 15 Issue 5 Pg. 20-3 (May 2012) ISSN: 1461-3123 [Print] England
• PMID: 22788003 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Evidence-Based Medicine
• Female
• Humans
• Labor Pain (therapy)
• Labor, Obstetric
• Pain Management
• Pain Measurement
• Patient Satisfaction
• Perinatal Care (methods)
• Pregnancy
• Pregnancy Outcome
• Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (methods)
• Women's Health