Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) provides yet another form of counter-stimulation and has been used for several years in the management of postoperative and cancer pain. It has been postulated that TENS helps to relieve pain by stimulating the release of endorphins. The TENS equipment consists of a small, battery driven pulse generator, connected to one or two pairs of electrodes which are attached to the skin with adhesive tape. When it is turned on, the TENS machine causes a tingling sensation underneath the electrodes - the strength of which can be adjusted at the generator controls

TENS is most useful during labour in helping to relieve pain. Consequently, the electrodes are usually placed on each side of the lower spine. A back-ground stimulation is set and the hand control unit is used to increase the intensity of the current during a contraction. In order to be of benefit, it is necessary to turn the control to a setting which is 'almost painful'. The most effective time to begin using TENS is early in labour before the pain becomes too intense.

TENS is non-invasive and simple to use. It does not have any side effects (apart from irritating the skin) and is controlled by the mother herself. TENS is also portable and does not interfere with the mother's ability to move around. (Sometimes, TENS can interfere with the signal from an electronic fetal monitor. In this event, TENS may have to be abandoned).

Women differ considerably in their opinions about the effectiveness of TENS in labour. In practice, additional analgesia is often needed - although it is possible that drug dose requirements may be less with the aid of TENS. Not everyone finds TENS effective and some dislike the tingling sensation.

If you are interested in using TENS you should first check with your doctor or midwife whether it will be available for you is preferable to try using TENS before going into labour so at you can find out just what it feels like.