[The effect of transcutaneous nerve stimulation on labor pain (author's transl)].

The analgesic effect of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TNS) during delivery has been studied. 57 (55.9%) of 102 women treated considered TNS had given them good or very good relief from pain; 24 (23.5%) reported that they had received some relief, while 21 patients (20.6%) were of the opinion that they were not helped by the technique. CTG monitoring ocurred in all cases. No side effects on the fetus or the mother have been noted. A positive aspect of TNS was the quick course of delivery and the absence of obstetrical complications in the cases treated with this method. Therefore the designation of TNS as a new, riskless, but effective technique for pain relief during childbirth seems justified.