Having an induction of labour means that your labour is being started before your body goes into labour on its own. There are many reasons why women may be induced, with the most common reasons being concerns for the mum, concerns for the baby or maternal choice. Whether you are being induced due to medical concerns or if it is your choice it can still be a daunting experience - with many women being faced with a multitude of “induction horror stories”. We are here to tell you to ignore the horror stories, stay informed and make the most out of your upcoming induction.
What is a TENS Machine?
A TENs Machine is a small portable device that sends electrical impulses through the skin layer of your back. Its role is to block the pain pathway to the brain, meaning that less of the pain signals will be registered by the brain as pain. Therefore, reducing your discomfort throughout your labour, improving your confidence and control and helping to improve your birth experience.
Induction of labour and labour pain
During an induction of labour the synthetic form of the body’s natural oxytocin hormone, called syntocinon, does not cross the blood brain barrier in significant amounts (Buckley, 2015). Meaning that less endorphins (the body’s natural pain relieving hormones) will be released to help provide calming and pain relieving effects (Buckley, 2015). Therefore, some women will perceive the labour contractions during an induction of labour as more painful and therefore commence the cascade of interventions.
However, in some cases the synthetic oxytocin may trigger the positive feedback loop required for labour and lead to natural oxytocin being produced and released. Further research is needed in this area.
Can I use a TENs Machine during an induction of labour?
Yes, you sure can!! Using a TENs Machine throughout your induction can provide you with a multitude of benefits including:
- Improved pain: As the synthetic oxytocin does not readily cross the blood brain barrier, the contractions may be perceived as more painful. Using a TENs Machine from right at the very start of your induction can help to reduce the amount of pain messages being sent to the brain to be registered. Potentially helping to reduce the cascade of interventions.
- Non-invasive: The TENs Machine is non-invasive and does not have any side effects for the mum or baby, making it a safe option for labour pain.
- Control: During an induction of labour you may be more likely to feel out of control. Using your TENs Machine can put some of the control back into your hands as you can adjust the intensity of the electrical impulses and feel empowered throughout.
- Staying mobile: Using a TENs Machine during your labour will enable you to stay active, utilising gravity and movement to help improve your labour pain.
Tips and tricks for an induction of labour
Other than using your TENs Machine for your upcoming induction of labour, here are some tips you can use to help you:
- Stay active: Being upright and mobile during your labour helps your baby to press onto your cervix and continue the positive feedback loop of labour. It also allows you more control in finding comfortable positions for labour. Consider changing your positions regularly to allow your pelvis to open at different angles and help your little baby wiggle further down.
- Try to stay hydrated and eat small regular meals: Staying hydrated and eating small regular meals during your labour is key in keeping your energy levels up but also helping your body continue contracting and progressing. Try to have a sip of water in between each contraction – partner’s this is a great job for you!
- Try to stay relaxed: When the contractions come it is important to try your best to relax your mind and body and focus on your breathing. This way you can help reduce your stress levels, improve your comfort and allow your natural oxytocin levels to flow. Therefore, helping you to progress in your labour.
- Stay informed and communicate: It is important you are aware of the induction process, what your options are and what you can expect. A great way to stay informed is through a One Mama Midwife Antenatal Class either online or in person. Being informed will give you more confidence in advocating for yourself and being confident in your choices. It will also help you feel confident in communicating and asking questions with your healthcare provider.
Induction of labour comes with its owns risks and benefits which should always be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your own individual circumstances. With the right tools, support and education you can navigate your induction with confidence. Using your TENs Machine from the minute the induction of labour commences can increase the amount of endorphins produced by the body, allow less of the pain signals to be received by the body and give you the confidence you need to have a positive birth experience. Remembering that every labour and birth is different, having an open mind and a range of tools to support you throughout can ensure you feel supported and improve your birth experience. Always discuss any specific induction concerns with your healthcare provider.
Written by Lauren Brenton
Endorsed Midwife
Founder of One Mama Midwife Pty Ltd
www.onemamamidwife.com