in regard to the post about tens - a Tens unit (transcutaneous electrical
nerve stimulator) is used for treatment of acute and chronic pain - most
often back pain. It works by transmitting tiny electrical charges that
stimulate nerves and (in theory) prevent pain fibers from firing. The idea
is to gently override the pain fibers.
Some mothers have had them during labor - I don't know of studies but have
had patients tell me that they worked great. In concept, massage or tight
touch during labor may work as well. Research is likely to have come from
physical medicine/rehabilitation and perhaps anesthesia/pain management
fields.
Julie Graves Moy, M.D., M.P.H.
[log in to unmask]http://www.bga.com/~jgmoy
P.O. Box 4768
Austin, Texas 78765
512-440-0480
512-441-1666 fax