Comparing the Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) At Hugo and Sanjiao Acupoints on Pain Intensity during the First Stage of Labor in Nulliparous Women: A Clinical Trial

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors

1 Lecturer, Department of Midwifery, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran

2 Graduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran

3 Associate Professor, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran

10.22038/jmrh.2024.77580.2303

Abstract

Background & aim: Effective pain management to reduce labor pain is considered as one of the most important issues in making vaginal delivery as a desirable option. The present study was performed to compare the effect of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) at Hugo and Sanjiao acupoints on labor pain intensity during the first stage of labor in nulliparous women.
Methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed on 129 nulliparous women referred to one Educational and Treatment Center in Zanjan, Iran. The paticipants were randomly assigned into three 41-member groups: the Hugo, the Sanjiao, and the control. Data collection tools included VAS scale and labor management form. The intervention was conducted by applying a TENS device at Hugo (LI4) or Sanjiao (SP6) acupoints since the beginning of active phase (dilatation of 4-5 cm) until dilatation of 10 cm. Pain scores were assessed at three dilation points: before intervention, at dilation 6 and 9 cm using VAS scale. The data analysis was carried out by R software (version 4.2.2) using ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis tests. In addition, Dunn’s test was used to compare variables.
Results: There was no significant difference among the three groups regarding the pre-intervention pain intensity (P=0.200). However, the Hugo and Sanjiao groups experienced significantly less pain in dilatation 6 and 9 cm compared to the control group (P<0.001). Moreover, no significant difference was observed between Hugo and Sanjiao groups regarding the pain intensity (P≥0.05).
Conclusion: The use of TENS device at the acupoints can be effective in decreasing labor pain intensity.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Journal of Midwifery and Reproductive Health
Volume 14, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 5203-5213

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