Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (or TENS as it is usually known) can be a useful tool when treating pain during or after pregnancy and whilst in labour. It is usually the chosen method when you can’t, or don’t choose to take medication. Studies have shown positive results when using TENS to treat issues such as lower back pain, pelvic pain, knee or hip pains, even pain from caesarean incisions and menstrual or labour pains (including pain associated with endometriosis). The safety of TENS in pregnancy has also been thoroughly researched and it is considered a safe modality but it comes with some guidance:
- Always speak to your healthcare provider before using a TENS, to check it is right for you,
- Always read the manufacturers instructions in full as TENS machines can differ from one to the next,
- Don’t use TENS over an area of skin that has reduced sensation.
- Don’t use TENS if you have a pacemaker fitted.
- Don’t use TENS if you have epilepsy.
- Don’t put TENS electrodes;
- Over the eyes,
- Across your head (brain),
- Over the front of the neck,
- From the front to the back of the chest or trapezius (between neck and shoulder),
- Anywhere on the hand or lower legs,
- Over broken skin or lesions,
- Over tumours,
- Directly over the spine itself.
If your healthcare provider does recommend the use of a TENS machine, have a look at out Top 5 picks here (and what they’re good for):
Boots Maternity TENS Unit
What we love about it:
- A reasonable priced TENS unit from a well know brand.
- It is suitable for use during labour as it has two pre-set modes; boost mode for use during contractions and another for use between contractions.
- When experiencing a contraction, simply press the boost button for a surge of power to help combat the pain.
- It comes with good reviews.
What it’s best for:
- Labour pains
Beurer EM50 Menstrual Relax
What we love about it:
- It’s rechargeable
- It has a heat function as well at the TENS.
- You can wear it under clothes whilst ‘on the go’ or at work.
- It has 15 intensity levels so you can build up gradually (depending on your pain levels).
What it’s best for:
- Post birth pains / cramps
- Menstrual cramps
- Endometriosis pains
Kinetik Wellbeing Dual Channel TENS Machine
What we love about it:
-
Used by the NHS and is in Association with St John Ambulance.
- The Devices are compliant with European medical device regulations and are Class IIa Medical Devices.
- Kinetik work with the FSC to ensure that their packaging is responsibly sourced.
- It has 2 Therapeutic Modes for different areas of the body, 20 different Intensities and Adjustable 60 min. Timer.
- Kinetik is a UK approved medical device company located in Surrey.
What it’s best for:
- Low back pain
- Sciatica
- Joint pains
Babycare TENS Elle
What we love about it:
- It’s really small, easy to hold whist on the move / in labour.
- There are various options of device. The Elle TENS 2 also has a contraction timer, recording your last 5 contractions and in-between contractions.
- The devices can be used after labour also for back / pelvic pains.
- Integrated boost button for contractions.
- All settings are pre-set making it simple to use.
- Also available to hire for 7 weeks. Immediate dispatch when you are 36 weeks or more, just just order here.
What it’s best for:
- Labour pains
- Saving money if hiring
- Versatility
Med-Fit Wireless Dual Channel Rechargeable TENS and Muscle Stimulator
What we love about it:
- Doesn’t need leads or batteries.
- Really easy to apply and use whilst active (carrying / feeding baby).
- Rechargeable (USB), each charge will last 8 hours.
- Medically researched Pre-Set Programs of Pain-Relief and Muscle Stimulation.
What it’s best for:
- Joint and muscle pains
- Simplicity