Use of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) for Pain Management During Intrauterine Device Insertion: A Case Series

This case series details the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain management during intrauterine device (IUD) insertion in three different patients. We used a 100 mm horizontal line visual analog scale (VAS) to assess pain associated with the procedure. Case 1 is a 39-year-old primiparous female with a past medical history of depression who presented to the clinic for Mirena IUD insertion. The patient rated overall pain during the procedure as 10 mm, with the most discomfort during IUD placement inside the uterus, which she rated 20 mm. Case 2 is a 16-year-old nulliparous female with no significant past medical history who presented for Mirena IUD insertion. The patient rated overall pain during the procedure as 40 mm, with the most discomfort during IUD placement inside the uterus, which she rated 45 mm. Case 3 is a 37-year-old multiparous female with no significant past medical history who also received a Mirena IUD. She rated overall pain during the procedure as 20 mm. All patients reported lower pain scores when compared to previously reported median pain scores associated with the procedure, highlighting the analgesic effects of TENS.