TENS Machine for labour
Have you heard of a TENS?
A labour TENS Machine is a great little tool to have in your toolkit if you are looking for a little bit of help during labour. It is non-invasive, gentle and safe for you and baby. If you are interested in trying one, I have machines for hire! Find out more about this little but powerful tool below.
A labour TENS is a safe, simple and powerful option for drug-free pain relief during labour.
The unit is specifically designed to use during labour and has 2 pre-set modes, one for during contractions (boost) and one for between contractions (burst). It is super easy to apply and use!
Pro tip! For best result, apply TENS machine in early labour.
"A game changer! I used the TENS throughout my whole labour right up until I got into the birth pool, being in control of the frequency and rhythm of the tens made surges so much more comfortable especially because my baby was posterior so it relieved any back pain I was having.
I even had it on between surges as it provided me with a good distraction before preparing me for the next surge.
I highly recommend the tens and don't know if I could of had the drug free labour I wanted without it!"
Jess
What is a TENS machine?
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation.
Pulses are applied across the skin from the adhesive electrode pads to reduce pain sensation. This will also help to increase your own pain relieving chemicals, endorphins!
Obi TENS is a simple yet versatile TENS machine. It is one of the most effective Labour TENS machines available today. It can also be used for post labour pain such as shoulder, back, period pain and much more.
With this simple Labour TENS you will receive all you need for your labour. It is pre set and ready to go, nothing to do except decide on how strong you need the pulses to be. The integrated boost button means you only have one device when that contraction comes so enjoy that relief!
There are maternity size electrodes included in the pack (brand new for each person) as well as spare batteries and a neck cord.
how does it work?
At the onset of labour, apply the 4 pads to your back as shown in the instructions provided. It’s important to put the pads in the right spots!
Switch the TENS unit on and you will feel a pleasant pulsing sensation.
This sensation will help to increase your own pain relieving chemicals known as the endorphins. When experiencing a contraction, simply press the boost button for the extra surge of power needed. When the contraction ends, press the boost button again and restart the cycle. Simples!!
Some more common questions:
Q: When shall I start using my Obi TENS?
A: Use as early as you can after the onset of labour to allow time for
your body’s pain-killing chemicals to rise.
Q: Can I combine the Obi TENS with other medication?
A: Yes, you can still use analgesics such as gas and air (entinox) or pethidine.
Q: Can the Obi TENS be used in hospital?
A: Yes. However, a midwife may ask you to switch it off temporarily.
Q: Can I use the Obi TENS if I am considering a water birth?
A:" Yes, but not in the water itself.
*Q&A copied from OBI TENS original website*
