Pain relief during delivery by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

The degree of pain alleviation achieved by transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TNS) during delivery has been evaluated. The usual technique of TNS was modified to suit the requirements of pain relief during delivery. Two pairs of electrodes were taped on the parturient's back at levels TH10--L1 and S2--S4. These segments correspond to the pathway of pain afferents into the spinal cord during the first and second stages, respectively. Stimulation was delivered by a two-channel generator producing biphasic pulses which were variable in frequency and amplitude. A low-intensity stimulation was given continuously and a high-intensity stimulation could be initiated by the parturient herself whenever pain increased. Stimulation was provided via the thoracic electrodes throughout the delivery, whereas sacral stimulation was added from the later part of the first stage. No complications with respect to mother or child have occurred. One hundred and forty-seven women have been treated, 65 (44%) of whom considered the pain relief by TNS to be good to very good, 65 (44%) experienced moderate effect, while 17 (12%) women considered that TNS was without effect. In view of the relatively good results and since no complications have occurred, we consider the method recommendable as a primary pain relieving measure to which conventional methods can be added according to need.