In Group D patients, TENS was given by Mama® TENS
machine [Figure 1][4]. Two pairs of self adhesive skin
electrodes measuring 50x100 mm were applied [Figure 2].
The top pair of electrodes was applied on either side of
spinal column 5 cm apart from each other and about 7.5
cm below the shoulder blades (close to vertebra T10-L1
).
The lower pair of electrodes was applied on either side of
spinal column about 10 cm apart and about 2.5 cm above
the dimple at the base of spine (close to vertebra S2
-S4
). The
upper pair of electrodes was stimulated during first stage
of labour and the lower pair during second stage of labour.
Frequency of electrical pulse used was 80 Hz. Current
intensity was gradually increased till pleasant tingling
sensation was felt but caused no discomfort to the patient.
There were three programmes A, B, and C in the machine
for increasing severity of labour pains. Each programme
had two modes; 1 and 2. Mode 1 was used in between
the uterine contraction and mode 2 was used during the
uterine contractions. During the uterine contraction,
boost button on the side of machine was pressed for
changing programme mode 1 to mode 2. When the uterine
contraction had passed, the boost button was pressed once
again and the running programme changed back to mode 1
at the same level of intensity. This was repeated with each
uterine contraction. As the labour progressed and uterine
contractions became more frequent, the programme was
changed from A to B and then to C. During the advanced
stage of labour when the pain became more intense the
programme mode was changed from B to C.