[indigo~]

Hi all,

I'm just back from the physio who used a TENS machine on my elbow. I'm 15w pregnant and asked her if it was safe and she said yes.

But now I'm worried it might have not been a good idea. Dr Google (I know, I shouldn't have looked!) has a few entries where it says TENS shouldn't be used till the later stages. So now I'm freaking out that I have done something harmful to bubs.

Does anyone have any knowledge or experiences to share?

Thanks.

[Tenacious C]

I wouldn't worry about it, the warnings are regarding use on your lower back and stomach during pregnancy as there is a theory that it can cause premature labour.

I went to a course run by the local hospital regarding the use of TENS while pregnant and we were encouraged to test it on out arms to see what it felt like.

We were advised not to use the TENS for lower back pain until we were term (37 weeks) due to the theory of it bringing on labour.

If I recall it was only a theory and not proven that the stimulation of the nerves and muscle in your lower back and pelvis may bring on labour.

[indigo~]

Thanks. Everything I can find on google says not to use before 37 weeks. Not only am I worried about it triggering contractions, I worry about the electrical current interfering with bubs heart. I hate the thought I've electrocuted the poor little thing.

I should have just trusted my gut and said no. I feel so stupid.

[Jenflea]

Did the physio know you were pregnant?
If you're really worried, you can always call the hospital or your OB and get the heart rate checked out.

[indigo~]

Thanks jenflea. Yes, the physio knew I was 15w pregnant. I'll ring my OB tomorrow to see what she says.

[Felix101]

I believe it's fine provided the current doesn't travel across the baby. So if for example you have electrodes in your left and right arms the current will travel across the body and possibly the baby. Where as if all the pads were all just around the elbow, on the same arm, then the current wouldn't pass over bubs so it would be fine.

If the physio knew you were pregnant I'm sure they would know what is/isn't safe

Hope this helps & makes sense!

[rosiebird]

You can stop worrying, your baby will be fine.

[Kasey5]

Yes it's quite safe. The tens only emits a very localised current that stimulates the nerves and muscles over a small area. I don't think there's any way it could interfere with your baby. As PP say, the warnings are about potentially triggering labour contractions if you use it on your lwr back.

[soontobegran]

A TENS machine sends a very mild and localised electrical current across the skin, I honestly do not see how TENS treatment on your elbow could in anyway effect your baby and I have not heard them to be not recommended in pregnancy?
My DD had one used on her hips and pelvis throughout her pregnancy.
Please don't worry OP.

[indigo~]

Thank you very much for your replies, it's eased my mind a bit.