Exploring Natural Pain Relief in Australian Births: TENS Journey

As more Australian mothers seek drug-free options for managing labour pain, it’s important to explore all available methods. With Labour TENS gaining broader attention, let’s delve into recent insights and trends in Australian birthing practices, with a special focus on the versatility of TENS. At Elle TENS, our aim is not only to provide mums-to-be with the leading TENS machine for their labour but also to empower you with the knowledge to make the most informed decisions on your journey.

TENS: A Flexible, Drug-Free Pain Management Option

A recent article from Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospital, one of Perth’s major hospitals under the Southern Metropolitan Health Service Area, highlights TENS as a safe pain control option during labour. They highlight that:

1. TENS is safe for both mother and baby when used correctly.
2. It can reduce the likelihood of reporting severe pain during labour.
3. TENS works by partially blocking pain messages to the brain and releasing natural painkillers.

The benefits of using TENS during labour are:

• Easy to use at home and in the hospital
• Controlled by the mother
• No side effects or drowsiness
• Non-invasive and allows freedom of movement
• Can be used alongside other pain relief methods

The Versatility of TENS

One of the standout advantages of TENS is its flexibility throughout the labour process:

• Start at home: You can begin using TENS as soon as contractions start, providing relief from the earliest stages of labour.
• Hospital-friendly: Continue using TENS during your journey to and at the hospital.
• Compatible with other methods: TENS can be used in conjunction with gas for additional pain management.
• Limitations: While versatile, TENS and water don’t mix – so no TENS in the birthing pool! (Unless you’re aiming for a shocking experience, and we don’t mean the kind that comes with meeting your baby for the first time )
• This versatility allows for a seamless transition from home to hospital, providing consistent pain relief throughout your labour journey.

Australian Birth Statistics: A Trend Towards Natural Approaches

Recent data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2022) shows:

61% of women in Australia had a vaginal birth (49% had a non-instrumental vaginal birth, 6.9% had a vacuum-assisted vaginal birth, 4.7% had a forceps-assisted vaginal birth)

While 39% of births were caesarean sections, there’s a growing interest in natural birthing options.

Pain Relief Choices in Australian Births

Interestingly, about 80% of women who give birth in Australia receive some form of pain relief. The breakdown is as follows:

• Gas: Used by 101,642 women
• Epidural/spinal blocks: Received by 90,384 women (46% of births)
• Opioids: Used by 20,314 women

These statistics show that while many women still opt for medical pain relief, there’s a significant portion exploring alternative methods.

The Growing Interest in Drug-Free Options

The fact that 54% of women don’t use epidurals suggests a substantial interest in drug-free or alternative pain management techniques. TENS machines, being non-invasive and drug-free, align well with this trend.

Conclusion

As Australian birthing practices evolve, TENS offers a versatile option for labour pain management, aligning with the growing preference for natural birthing experiences. If you’re considering TENS for your labour:

1. Discuss its suitability with your healthcare provider
2. Remember it can be used from home to the hospital, but not in water
3. Aim for a safe and comfortable birthing experience for both mother and baby

For more information on pregnancy pain management, consult these reputable Australian resources:

• Pregnancy, Birth and Baby (www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
• The Royal Women’s Hospital (www.thewomens.org.au)
• healthdirect (www.healthdirect.gov.au)
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (www.aihw.gov.au)
• Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)

These sites offer evidence-based information from trusted health organisations. Always seek personalised advice from your healthcare provider for your specific needs to see if  TENS is a suitable natural pain relief for you and your birthing jouney.

Final note

We invite you to explore our range of Labour TENS machines, designed to support you through your birthing journey. For the latest updates, tips, and information on pain management during labour, follow us on our social media channels and stay informed throughout your pregnancy.