This is a randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as a non-pharmacological therapeutic intervention for reducing pain in women during the active phase of labor. Nulliparous women with term pregnancies will be randomly assigned to sequences involving TENS intervention and placebo (device off) periods, separated by a washout. The primary outcome is labor pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Secondary outcomes include duration of the active labor phase, maternal and neonatal safety profile, and childbirth experience satisfaction. The study will be conducted at the Hospital Escuela Universitario from feb 2026 to Ago 2026.
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Labor Pain Intensity
Timeframe: Assessed at baseline (upon enrollment at >=5 cm dilation), at 15 minutes, and at 30 minutes after the start of each intervention phase (Active TENS or Sham) during the active phase of labor.
Ricardo A. Gutierrez Ramirez, MD, MSc