Learn
How TENS Machines Help with Labour Pain: What You Need to Know
Labour is one of the most powerful and transformative experiences a woman can go through. While no two birth stories are the same, many women seek out ways to manage the intensity of labour without relying solely on medical interventions. One increasingly popular option is the use of a TENS machine, particularly during early labour. In this blog, we’ll explain how TENS works, when to use it, and why so many mums across Australia are choosing Elle TENS for their birth experience. What Is a TENS Machine? TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. A TENS machine sends gentle electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pulses help interrupt pain signals being sent to the brain, while also stimulating the body to release natural endorphins, your body’s very own painkillers. How TENS Helps During Labour TENS machines are most commonly used during the early stages of labour, when contractions begin and build in intensity. Here’s how they help: ✅ Drug-free relief – No side effects for you or your baby ✅ Control in your hands – Use the machine how and when you want ✅ Stays with you – Portable and easy to use at home or on the way to hospital ✅ Midwife approved – Many healthcare professionals recommend TENS during early labour Elle TENS machines also come with a Boost Button, a feature designed to give an extra surge of relief during each contraction. Press it when a contraction begins, and release it after – it’s that simple. When Should I Start Using a TENS Machine? Most women start using TENS in early labour, when contractions become regular but aren’t yet too intense. The earlier you start, the better it works – this gives your body time to build up endorphins and block pain signals effectively. You should aim to have your TENS machine ready at 36 weeks, so you’re prepared whenever labour begins. Is TENS Safe for Labour? Yes – TENS machines like the Elle TENS are completely safe for use during labour. They’re non-invasive, drug-free, and can be used alongside other pain relief options (gas, epidurals, etc.). However, you should not use a TENS machine in water (e.g., during a bath or water birth) or if you have certain medical conditions like epile psy or a pacemaker – always check with your doctor or midwife. Why Choose Elle TENS Australia? At Elle TENS Australia, we specialise in labour-specific TENS machines, designed with birth in mind. Our machines are: Easy to use (even in active labour) Available to hire or buy Trusted by thousands of mums and endorsed by midwives Covered by some private health insurance plans Final Thoughts TENS machines offer an empowering, natural way to manage labour pain. Whether you’re a first-time mum or planning another birth, using an Elle TENS can help you feel more confident and in control as your labour progresses. 📦 Ready to order your TENS machine?👉 Hire or buy an Elle TENS here
Learn more
We Won Bronze! Elle TENS Plus Takes Home a Mum Central Award
We are thrilled to share some amazing news, Elle TENS Plus has won Bronze in the 2025 Mum Central Awards for Best Pregnancy/Maternity Product! This recognition means the world to us. It highlights our continued dedication to supporting mums-to-be with reliable, innovative, and trusted pain relief during labour. We couldn’t have done it without you, our incredible community who voted, shared, and supported us throughout the journey. What Mum Central Had to Say “Elle TENS Plus continues to stand out as one of the most loved and effective tools for labour. Mums across the country rave about its simplicity, comfort, and how much relief it brings during contractions.”— Mum Central Awards 2025 Real Words from Real Mums “I don’t know how I would have coped without my Elle TENS Plus during labour. It gave me so much control and relief—I actually felt empowered!”— Sophie, first-time mum “It was a game changer. I recommend Elle TENS Plus to all my pregnant friends now. It helped me stay calm and manage pain naturally.”— Emma, mum of two A Heartfelt Thank You Being recognised in the Mum Central Awards is a huge honour. These awards celebrate brands that truly make a difference in the lives of Australian families. To be ranked among the top is a testament to the trust you place in Elle TENS Plus. What’s Next? We’ll continue our mission to empower women through pregnancy and childbirth with products that are safe, effective, and easy to use. This award motivates us to keep innovating and improving so we can serve you even better. Thank you once again for your support, it truly made this win possible.
Learn more
Our Elle TENS Plus journey for Jules Robinson!
Jules Robinson Recommends Elle TENS for Labour: “It’s a Must-Have!” We are so excited to share that Jules Robinson—TV personality, mum, and star of Married at First Sight—has been singing the praises of the Elle TENS machine for years! In a recent video, Jules shared her incredible experience using Elle TENS through both of her natural births. Her words say it all: “If you’re having a baby, you’ve got to get one of these (Elle TENS). I’ve had two natural births now, and without this I don’t know if I could have done it. Hand on heart, it’s like you’re coaching yourself while you’re giving birth.” Jules has been recommending Elle TENS to anyone and everyone—from podcasts and interviews to everyday chats with fellow mums-to-be. She’s a true believer in what this little device can do during labour. “This Elle TENS machine is just a must-have if you’re giving birth. And if you have health insurance, you also get a 60 to 80% rebate because it’s TGA registered. It is so amazing.” We couldn’t agree more. The Elle TENS is drug-free, safe, and designed to give you control and comfort during one of life’s biggest moments. Whether you’re planning a hospital birth or a home birth, it’s the ultimate support tool. 👇 Watch Jules’ full video below to hear why she swears by Elle TENS 👇
Learn more
Vote for Us in the 2025 Mum Central Awards
Exciting News: Elle TENS is a Mum Central Awards Finalist! We are delighted to announce that Elle TENS has been nominated for the Best Pregnancy/Maternity Product category in the 2025 Mum Central Awards! This recognition is a testament to our commitment to supporting expectant mothers with high-quality, trusted products. Why This Recognition Matters The Mum Central Awards celebrate excellence in parenting and maternity products, recognising brands that truly make a difference for families. Being nominated is an honour, and winning would further reinforce the trust and value Elle TENS brings to mothers across Australia. Vote and Win! Cast your vote for Elle TENS and be in the running to win $300 in JB Hi-Fi gift cards! Every vote helps us get closer to winning, and it only takes a moment to show your support. Plus, by participating, you’ll be entered into a draw to win $300 in JB Hi-Fi gift cards! Vote now: Click here to cast your vote Voting is open from Monday, 24th March at 7:00 am AEST until Wednesday, 30th April at 11:59 pm AEST. Don’t miss your chance to support Elle TENS! Key Dates to Remember Voting closes: Wednesday, 30th April 2025 Winners announced: Wednesday, 21st May 2025 via Mum Central We are incredibly grateful for your ongoing support and trust in Elle TENS. Let’s make this happen together! Stay connected! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates and more ways to support our nomination.
Learn more
Elle TENS, Trusted by Mums for Labour
Elle TENS award winning range of labour TENS machines offer the full spectrum of support for expecting mothers. And with exclusive Opti-Max technology, you’ll receive an extra boost of pain relieving power during the most painful contractions. Loved by mums, trusted by midwives, the Elle TENS range of TENS machines for labour puts you in control. Shop our full range of TENS machines for pregnancy and labour here.
Learn more
Maternity TENS: Preparing for Labour with TENS
When it comes to childbirth, every woman’s experience is unique. Some breeze through labour with little intervention, while others face long hours and intense sensations. The good news is that no matter what your birth journey looks like, some tools can help. One of the most effective and empowering options available today is a TENS machine for labour — and it’s gaining traction among mums-to-be all over Australia. In this article, we’ll guide you through how TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can support you during labour, what to expect when using one, and how to prepare for the big day. We’ll also cover organising a TENS machine hire, why products like the Birth Comb can complement your TENS experience, and what makes the Elle TENS unit so special. What is a Maternity TENS Machine? Let’s start with the basics. A maternity TENS machine is a small, battery-operated device that sends gentle electrical pulses through the skin using electrode pads placed on your back. These pulses help stimulate the nerves and block pain signals to the brain. The device also encourages the release of endorphins — your body’s natural painkillers. Unlike medical pain relief like epidurals or gas, TENS is drug-free, non-invasive, and can be used at home or in a hospital. It gives you a sense of control during labour and can be particularly effective in the early stages. TENS for birth has become especially popular because it allows women to remain active, upright, and present throughout their labour. Whether it’s your first baby or your fourth, the feeling of empowerment that comes from managing labour naturally is invaluable. How Does It Help During Labour? Labour pain typically starts in the lower back and abdomen. As contractions build, the pain can become more intense. TENS machines help in three main ways: Distraction: The sensation from the TENS machine can shift your focus away from the contraction. Pain Gate Theory: The pulses interfere with pain messages trying to reach the brain. Endorphin Release: Stimulating nerves boosts the production of endorphins, which naturally ease pain. Many women find that using a TENS machine for labour early on can delay or reduce the need for other forms of pain relief. It can also be combined with other techniques like water therapy, breathing, massage, and using a Birth Comb for acupressure support. When Should You Start Using It? TENS machines are most effective when started at the very beginning of labour — as soon as you begin to feel regular contractions. Using it early gives your body time to build up endorphins and makes it easier to cope as labour intensifies. It’s a good idea to test the machine before your due date so you’re familiar with how it works. You and your birth partner can practise applying the pads and adjusting the settings. Many women opt for a TENS machine hire from a trusted Australian supplier like Elle TENS Australia. This way, you’ll receive your unit a few weeks before your due date, giving you time to get comfortable with using it. Setting Up Your TENS Machine Setting up your TENS machine is simple: Make sure the skin on your back is clean and dry. Apply the electrode pads to the correct positions (around the Bra and Panty line). Connect the pads to the machine. Turn it on and adjust the intensity to a comfortable level. Labour TENS machines have a “boost” button you can press during contractions for extra relief, then release between contractions. This feature is essential during active labour and is one of the standout features of the Elle TENS range. Your birth partner can be a great help here — they can manage the controls so you can focus on breathing and staying calm. Are There Any Risks or Side Effects? TENS is widely considered safe for use in labour. It has no known side effects for you or your baby. However, it should not be used: Before 37 weeks unless advised by a health professional If you have epilepsy or a pacemaker (unless approved by your doctor) On broken or irritated skin Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult your midwife or doctor if you’re unsure. Choosing the Right TENS Machine for Labour Not all TENS machines are the same. It’s important to choose one specifically designed for maternity use. Key features to look for include: A user-friendly “boost” button for contractions Adjustable settings and clear display An inbuilt contraction timer to help track the rhythm and duration of contractions Neck strap for mobility Medical-grade electrodes to ensure safe and effective use A TENS unit that is a registered medical device with the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) Elle TENS is a top-rated choice in Australia. Designed for mums, it’s compact, reliable, and easy to use during all stages of labour. Elle TENS combines effective pain relief with simplicity — helping you feel confident and supported. What Do Real Mums Say? Here’s what some of our Elle TENS mums had to say about their experience with TENS for birth: “I used my TENS from the start of labour, and it got me through hours at home before heading to the hospital. It was the best investment I made during pregnancy!” – Jenna, Sydney “Having that boost button during contractions gave me something to focus on. It helped me feel in control, which made such a difference.” – Alisha, Melbourne “I loved that it was natural and didn’t affect my baby or delay breastfeeding. I’ll be using it again for my next birth!” – Tara, Brisbane Tips for Making the Most of Your TENS Labour Experience Practise before labour: Know how to apply the pads and use the settings. Start early: Don’t wait until the pain becomes overwhelming. Combine with other tools: Use your Birth Comb, breathing techniques, and relaxation exercises. Final Thoughts Preparing for labour isn’t just about packing a hospital bag — it’s about having the right tools to support you physically and emotionally. A maternity TENS machine for labour is one of those tools that offers a powerful, natural option for pain management. Whether you’re considering a TENS machine hire for your first birth or looking to use TENS for birth again, investing in a quality unit like the Elle TENS can help you feel calm, in control, and empowered. We’re proud to support Australian mums at every step of their journey. From early pregnancy through to postpartum recovery, Elle TENS Australia is here to help you experience birth your way. Resources: TENS for Birth: Using TENS in Labour TENS Machine Hire Australia – Elle TENS Bliss Birth Comb for Labour Support FAQs – TENS Labour & Pregnancy Support
Learn more
Why Mums Choose Elle TENS Machines For Labour
Explore our full range of TENS machines for pregnancy and labour here. Hear why Aussie mums recommend Elle TENS to other pregnant women to help manage labour pain. Specially designed for mums-to-be, Elle TENS machines reduce labour pain for 98% of women. Our TENS machines provide a safe and effective form of natural pain relief, so you can relax into the natural stages of labour and achieve an empowering birth. Loved by mums, trusted by midwives, the Elle TENS range of TENS machines for labour puts you in control.
Learn more
Holiday Season Update from Elle TENS! Shipping Information
What an incredible year supporting Australian mums through their birth journeys! As we wrap up 2024, we want to thank every one of you who has trusted us with your birth preparation and pain management needs. Holiday Shipping InformationFinal Australia Post shipping cutoff: December 20th, 10am AEDTThis applies to both our TENS hire service and Elle TENS purchases.Express shipping remains available for those last-minute preparations! Planning for a summer baby? Our TENS hire service continues to be available through our easy online booking system. Visit our hire page to secure your labour TENS machine. Looking to purchase your own Elle TENS Plus? These make perfect gifts for expecting mums or birth professionals. Check out our Elle TENS Plus page to learn more about owning your own medical-grade TENS machine. We’re excited to continue supporting Australian families throughout 2025. Whether hiring or buying, we’re here to help you achieve a positive birth experience. Remember to place your orders before December 20th, 10am for delivery before the holiday break (subject to metro and Auspost shipping timeframes). Wishing you and your growing family a wonderful holiday season! Dont forget to keep track of Mr Clause as he makes his way to Australia! The Elle TENS Family
Learn more
Elle TENS, Trusted by Midwives for Labour
Elle TENS award winning range of labour TENS machines offer the full spectrum of support for expecting mothers. And with exclusive Opti-Max technology, you’ll receive an extra boost of pain relieving power during the most painful contractions. Loved by mums, trusted by midwives, the Elle TENS range of TENS machines for labour puts you in control. Shop our full range of TENS machines for pregnancy and labour here.
Learn more