TENS Machine

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machines send gentle electrical pulses through electrodes attached to the skin to give pain relief. There are several theories for how this works:

  1. Gate Control Theory - blocks pain signals at “the pain gate” which prevents pain messages from reaching the spinal cord and being passed to the brain

  2. Endorphin release - stimulates the body to release endorphins which are the body’s natural painkiller

  3. Distraction - works to create a different sensation to draw attention away from labour pains

How to use it during labour

  1. Attach the adhesive pads to the skin on the back or abdomen (can also be put in other places as a distraction or to relieve pain unrelated to labour - e.g. shoulders)

  2. Turn on the machine and gradually increase the intensity until you feel a tingling sensation

  3. Adjust the amplitude, frequency, duration, and pattern until you feel comfortable

Kit Includes Everything You Need:

  • TENS unit

  • Wires

  • Charging Cord

  • Single Use Electrode Pads (x4)

Rental cost is $15+HST

You must pick up the kit from North End Halifax at 38 weeks of pregnancy, and return it within a week of your birth. The electrode pads are to be disposed of by you, and we take care of sterilizing the rest of the kit once you return it.