Tens machine to help back ache earlier in pregnancy

[mogwai]

I'm just posting this as an idea to other expectant mums complaining of back ache.

I bought a tens machine for £40 from Boots and it's been brilliant.

It's nto as strong as the ones you'd use in about, it has a choice of two or four pads.

I put it on if I wake up with back ache in the night or morning. Really helps me sleep or get back to sleep.

Recommend it highly - never thought of it during my first pregnancy.(I'm 25 weeks - had it since 21 weeks)

AFAIK TENS machines are not recommended except in labour.

why not??

Mine says on the instructions that it's fine to use in pregnancy but not on the abdomen.

Would obviously have checked that before buying!!

There's not a lot of research out there about TENS in earlier pregnancy.

My physio advised against using it before 30 weeks for back pain

I thought you could not use them in pregnancy until after 37 weeks?

something to do with triggering muscle contractions?

I thought it was to do with diverting blood to the part of the body it's on - away from the baby. Mind you, since sod all research appears to have been done that may well fall into the 'lifting your hands above your head makes the baby strangle on the umbilical cord' theory (as in 'yes it could happen in theory but is about as unlikely as your baby coming out of you with six inch fingernails').

If it gets you through the pains of pregnancy without hurting you or the baby, I say, go for it

Lots of old wives tales, aren;t there?!

DH is an anaesthetist and can't see a problem so I'm all for it.

It's rahter marvellous!