Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as a pain-relief device in obstetrics and gynecology

Abstract

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a non-pharmacological and non-invasive pain-relief method that has been proven effective for a variety of conditions. Electrical therapy has been recognized for a long time but its practical clinical application in the form of TENS has been evaluated only during the last 30 years as a result of several theories on pain. The most known of these with regard to TENS development is the "gate theory", although several others have also played a role. In obstetrics and gynecology, TENS has been found to be effective in alleviating labor pain and in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. It has also been used successfully following obstetric and gynecologic surgery. In order to be effective in clinical use for obstetric and gynecologic indications, a TENS device must have certain properties, which are detailed in this review. Although new TENS devices that meet all the necessary requirements have been developed and tested, their use is still far from widespread. Patients and medical staff should be encouraged to try the TENS device for obstetric and gynecologic indications, since it is non-invasive, efficient, and easy to use.