Is it safe for me to use a TENS machine?

[shinyshilling]

I have a really painful bad back at 26 weeks. I had an accident 15 years ago and did some damage to my spine and this mixed with a rapidly growing bump is causing an awful lot of pain in my lower back and pelvis. I'm going for physio, using a pelvic brace, a birth ball, going to aqua-natal and active birth classes, but still can't ease the pain.

I have a TENS Machine (an old model which won't be suitable for labour)and have been using it under the guidance of my MW, but my physio says I shouldn't use it yet.I was checking out TENS on the internet and phoned one company who told me that using TENS too early can encourage early labour. So in a confused state I rang my GP who contacted the head of Obs at our local hospital who said it was totally safe to use TENS in my condition. Who do I beleive? Does anyone have any insight or advice on using TENS at this stage, which is the best model to buy and solutions for backpain? Sorry this is so long!

There is a real divided opinion on this, unfortunately. Basically, because there has never been any official research into the matter ( as far as I'm aware ) there is no actual evidence to back up either view.

Does your physio specialise in obstetric care? If not, could you ask him to back his statement up?

On a purely anecdotal level, I have heard of several women using TENS from as early as 16 weeks to help ease the pain of SPD ( pelvic disfunction in pregnancy ) with no problems. If the Head of Obs has given you the go ahead, then I would presume it was safe. I am certainly planning on using mine during pregnancy for my SPD should I feel the need.

hi.. i used a tens in my last pregnacy because of spd..
we hired it and did have to lie about how far along i was . but was advised to use it by mw and my consultant .. used it from about 30 weeks and everything was fine.. it really helped controlling the pain and i would advise anyone to use one if they needed it.

I hired mine from www.tensmachinedirect.co.uk £25 for 6 weeks with free delivery

Hi, I'm using a TENS machine for SPD and back problems from a car crash a few years ago. I was given the machine by the pain clinic under the guidance of the obstetric anaesthetist. She seemed pretty clear that it would be OK. The only thing I've been told is that if I get contraction type sensations while using it to stop.