Let's Talk About TENS, Baby

Okay, friends, today we are talking about one of my absolute favorite labor hacks: the TENS unit.

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, but don't let that scare you. This is not a medieval torture device, nor will it electrocute you. It's a small, battery-operated machine that sends mild pulses through your skin. It's the birth equivalent of a friend who shows up with snacks, a heating pad, and just a little bit of sass. Understated, underrated, and really freaking helpful.

What the heck does a TENS unit do in labor?

Great question!

• It gives your nerves information to process other than contractions.

• It helps your brain release endorphins.

• It creates a buzzy, tingly feeling that many people find super soothing.

• It gives you control. I am all about giving birthing people power in labor; you can crank it up, turn it down, or shut it off completely. The power is literally in you hands.

Using it in early labor is especially awesome if you are dealing with back labor or trying to labor at home for as long as possible before heading to your birth space.

When should I use it?

This is important: TENS works best when you start early. Don't wait until things are already intense and sweaty and dramatic. Start when you are still not completely positive if these are contractions or maybe you just have to poop: that’s your ideal window.

The earlier you start, the more helpful it is as things ramp up. It’s kind of like preheating the oven while you are gathering ingredients - you will thank yourself when it’s time to bake.

Does it work for everyone?

Nope. (Sorry - just some honesty here.) Some people love it, some feel meh, and a few just decide it’s not their vibe. The upside is that It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and easy to try, so you have nothing to lose giving it a shot.

It won’t get rid of all the pain - let’s be so for real and not oversell - but it can take the edge off, help you cope, and give you some time before committing to more intense comfort measures.

So how do I get one?

Good news! I get to be your magical fairy goddoula! Baby To Go birth clients receive a loaned TENS unit as part of their package. No rental fee, no deposit, no sketchy internet shopping at 2AM. You get the unit, new electrode pads, and simple instructions so you can get familiar with it before the big day. Because if you are going to try it, you probably want to know what buttons to push before you’re contracting and cursing at everyone.

Not a BTG birth client? I may have units available to rent, depending on your due date. Find out more here.

TL/DR?

TENS is a low-risk, low-drama tool that may make a big difference in how you cope in labor. It’s not magic, but it’s helpful! And it’s one more way I’ve got your back. Literally.

For My Nerds - You Don't Have To Take My Word For It

If you’re the kind of person who likes to fact-check (hi, same), here are a few solid sources:

• Dowswell, T., Bedwell, C., Lavender, T., Neilson, J. P., & Neilson, J. (2009). Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain management in labour. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Issue 2.

• Bundsen, P., & Nestnest, R. (1981). Pain relief in labor by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 60(5), 475-479.

• Thomas, J., et al. (1988). Randomised controlled trial of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in labour. The Lancet, 331(8595), 756-758.

• Santana, L. S., Gallo, R. B. S., Ferreira, C. H. J., Duarte, G., & Marcolin, A. C. (2016). Effects of TENS during labor: A randomized controlled trial. Reproductive Health, 13(1), 1-6.