TENS stands for "transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation" and is used often in physical therapy as well as for pain relief. A small electrical unit sends a signal to electrodes on the lower back. It feels like a tingly tap. These signals block pain messages to the brain. And no side-effects! Read what women who've used it think.

Lisa's story
Lisa had never planned to have her second baby at home but Thomas surprised her! Although unexpected, Lisa and Matt were very happy with the way they felt in control of their environment and being able to slot back into a routine very quickly with their toddler.

Liz's story
Liz had the labour she always imagined - she used several comfort measures and had wonderful support from her husband and doula. She coped beautifully and felt strong and in control. But after many hours with no progress, Liz and her husband Jimmy chose to have a caesarean. They found their entire experience positive and affirming.

Joo Hymn's story
Joo Hymn found her labour quite painful, but arrived at the hospital pushing, and her baby was born just minutes later. Afterward, she struggled with breastfeeding for some time. In a letter to her baby, Joo Hymn describes how proud she feels of the strength she found within herself to cope with labour in the way she wanted, and how glad she was that she persevered with breastfeeding.

Harlinah's story
After a very long posterior labour, Harlinah had her first child with the support of her husband and two doulas.

Kara's story (Ryan's birth)
Expecting their third child, Kara and her husband Alex planned a vaginal birth after two caesareans (VBA2C). After deciding to have an induction one week past her due date, Kara went into labour spontaneously the night before the induction was scheduled, but after labouring all day, Kara and Alex chose a caesarean when the baby was not moving from an unfavourable position. Kara felt happy to have planned a VBAC, even if it did not come to pass. She was glad that her baby had the benefit of labour before the caesarean, and she again made the choices to ensure she would have a positive experience for her caesarean birth.

Kara's story (Avery's birth)
Kara was planning a vaginal birth after a caesarean (VBAC) for her second baby, but experienced complications during labour and had a repeat caesarean birth. This time, however, her caesarean was a far more positive experience.