TENS units

As a CNA, I assist patients with the use of TENS units frequently to help manage their back or shoulder pain.  However, until recently, I had never thought of the possibility of using them during labor!  A TENS unit is a small device with four electrodes that send small electrical impulses to help with pain control.  I would imagine this could be very useful during labor, especially in the case of back labor.  Many hospitals use TENS units for physical therapy, if it is something that appeals to you, inquire at your hospital you plan on delivering at if you would be able to use one for labor.  Some midwives also have TENS units they rent out.  Also, you could discuss with your doctor about getting a prescription for a rental TENS unit and ask for numbers of medical suppliers who can supply the TENS unit.  If you want to buy a TENS unit, you can do it through www.tensunits.com.

Here are some women's accounts of their experience using a TENS unit during labor:
TENS unit

Here's a video describing how the TENS unit works:
TENS video, how it works