A non-invasive, Portable, Self-controlled labor pain relief has been a dream come true for women in Canada and the U.K, who often have access to TENS units during childbirth for pain relief. About 1 in 5 women in the UK try one for their labor.
Chances are you've never heard of TENS, which stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation since its use in labor is exceedingly rare in other parts of the world.
TENS can be a terrific, low-risk option for you and your birth if you're interested in non-pharmaceutical comfort in labor.
What is a TENS unit?
Introduced in the 1970s into maternity care in Scandinavia, TENS UNITS (LIKE those from ITOUCH) uses Nerve stimulation, a technique that aims to relieve pain using an electrical current. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (or TENS) it doesn't take away the sensation of contractions, but essentially interrupts the pain signals your brain is receiving, reducing your awareness of them or producing endorphins that allow you to cope better. It's a common comfort measure used in physical and occupational therapy, especially by people who suffer from chronic pain.
the majority of women who used it said they would use it again in future labor. Use of TENS is not recommended for people who have pacemakers and it can't be used while you are in a shower or a bath (or once you get an epidural).
Why is it recommended by doctors?
ITOUCH Tens units allow you, as a laboring mother, to remain active and upright. this unit has buttons you can use to turn the intensity up or down, depending on your pain level, tolerance, and where you are in your labor. TENS also does not interfere with electronic fetal monitoring.
it can be put on or taken off at any point during your labor. there are no side effects for your baby. It's especially good for back labor pains, research shows that TENS is most effective when it is used in early labor and then continued throughout the labor process.
ITOUCH tens units are perfect for people who are planning unmedicated birth as well as those who just want multiple options of pain relief during their labors.
These units are great for recovering mommies as well long after birth , as well as other pains on the body like feet, hands, legs and shoulders caused from having to carry around a growing baby
ITOUCH offers wonderful add-odd for tens units like the reflexology slippers. Another great add-on is conductive gloves for managing hand pains as well as a wonderful tool to gently massage the face or other parts of the body.
