RECOMMENDED GLOBALLY BY MIDWIVES AND OBSTETRICIANS
✦
DRUG-FREE PAIN RELIEF
✦
4, 6 OR 8 WEEK HIRE PROCESS
✦
PRIORITY DELIVERY AVAILABLE
✦
SHIPPED AUSTRALIA-WIDE
✦
Are TENS Machines Safe to Use During Labour?

Are TENS Machines Safe to Use During Labour?

by Arvo Agency in Learn

If you’re exploring drug-free options for pain relief during birth, you’ve likely come across TENS machines. But one common question we hear is:
“Are TENS machines actually safe to use during labour?”

The short answer is yes. When used correctly and with genuine electrodes, TENS machines are a safe, proven, and trusted choice for labour support. Here's what you need to know.

What Is a TENS Machine?

TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. It works by sending small electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pulses help:

  • Block pain signals travelling to the brain
  • Trigger the release of endorphins (your body’s natural painkillers)
  • Offer a distraction and a sense of control during labour

At Elle TENS, we supply the Elle TENS 2 and Elle TENS Plus, both specifically designed for maternity use.

Is It Safe for You and Your Baby During Labour?

Yes — when used as directed, TENS machines are safe for both mother and baby. They are:

  • Drug-free, so no side effects or risks of drowsiness
  • Non-invasive, with no internal devices or injections
  • Completely under your control, thanks to the handheld design and boost button
  • Widely recommended by midwives and physiotherapists across Australia

TENS is ideal for early labour, whether you're at home or in hospital, and is a great way to delay or reduce the need for stronger interventions.

Are There Any Situations Where TENS Shouldn’t Be Used?

TENS should not be used:

  • Before 37 weeks of pregnancy, unless under medical supervision
  • On broken or irritated skin
  • If you have a pacemaker or certain heart conditions (always check with your doctor)
  • In the shower or bath (the unit is not waterproof)

If you're unsure, speak with your midwife or care provider, but TENS is a safe and practical choice for most low-risk pregnancies.

Why Genuine Electrodes Matter for Safety

Using genuine Babycare electrodes, which come with every Elle TENS hire or purchase, is key for safe and effective use. These electrodes are:

  • Latex-free and designed specifically for maternity use
  • Packaged in sterile, barcoded pouches (not ziplock bags)
  • Backed by rigorous quality control and Australian safety standards

Counterfeit or non-genuine electrodes can reduce effectiveness and may irritate the skin or come unstuck during use.

Feel Confident and In Control

TENS machines are a safe, empowering option for managing labour pain, especially in the early stages. If you're looking for a low-risk, natural pain relief tool that gives you control, Elle TENS is a trusted choice for thousands of Australian parents.

Ready to book your hire or buy your unit?
Explore your options on our website and get birth-ready with confidence.

Tags: Elle Tens How It Works TENS Hire TENS Machines
Previous Post Next Post

Related Posts

Natural Pain Relief Options During Labour | Elle TENS

Natural Pain Relief Options During Labour | Elle TENS

Labour is one of the most powerful experiences a woman can go through, and many mums-to-be want to explore natural pain relief options before turning to medical interventions. From breathing techniques to water immersion, there are a range of ways to manage contractions naturally. Among them, TENS machines for labour are becoming one of the most trusted and practical tools, with 98% of women reporting reduced labour pains when using Elle TENS devices. Breathing and Relaxation Techniques Breathing deeply and staying relaxed helps calm the mind, reduce tension, and improve oxygen flow to both mum and baby. Many women find that simple breathing patterns taught in antenatal classes allow them to feel grounded and more in control during contractions. Massage and Counter-Pressure Massage from a partner or support person offers a sense of connection and comfort. Applying gentle or firm pressure to the lower back and hips can help reduce discomfort while creating closeness and reassurance during labour. Water Birth and Warm Showers Water is known for its soothing qualities. Being immersed in warm water, in a bath, birthing pool, or even under a shower, can ease muscle tension, promote relaxation, and help mums feel weightless and supported during labour. Movement and Positioning Changing positions and moving throughout labour can help contractions feel more manageable. Walking, swaying, kneeling, or using a birthing ball gives many mums a sense of progress, helping labour to flow naturally while also easing discomfort. Acupuncture and Acupressure Both acupuncture and acupressure focus on activating the body’s natural energy pathways. By stimulating these points, the body can release endorphins, the natural “feel-good” hormones, that provide relief and relaxation throughout labour. Our Acu-Comb is a simple yet powerful tool many mums love. By holding the comb and pressing it gently into the hand, it stimulates acupressure points that naturally release endorphins and provide a distraction from contractions. It’s small, portable, and easy to use alongside other techniques, making it a perfect addition to your hospital bag. Explore the Acu-Comb here. TENS Machines for Labour A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine is one of the most popular natural pain relief options for labour. Specially designed maternity TENS machines like our Elle TENS use gentle electrical pulses to: Reduce pain signals Boost endorphin release Provide instant relief with a simple “boost” button during contractions Allow freedom of movement Keep mums in control throughout their labour The Elle TENS has been trusted by thousands of mums across Australia, and research shows that 98% of women experience reduced labour pain using TENS. Why TENS and Acu-Comb Stand Out While all natural methods have amazing benefits, TENS and Acu-Comb stand out because they combine drug-free relief, portability, and proven effectiveness. You can use them from the very first contraction through to active labour, whether at home or in hospital. You can also choose whether to hire or buy an Elle TENS device. Hiring is a cost-effective choice for labour, while buying means you can continue using it for period pain, back pain, or even future pregnancies. Pairing it with an Acu-Comb adds another layer of comfort and support. Explore your options: Hire Elle TENS Buy Elle TENS Acu-Comb Every woman’s labour is unique, and having natural pain relief options helps mums feel empowered and supported. From breathing to water immersion, massage, and movement, each has its place in creating a positive birth experience. For mums who want extra support, Elle TENS devices and the Acu-Comb are two simple, effective tools that provide comfort, confidence, and proven relief. Together, they’re the perfect additions to your hospital bag.

Learn more
Not One… We Got Twins!

Not One… We Got Twins!

Winning an award is always special. But winning two – at the same time – feels a little like bringing home twins. Twice the joy, twice the pride, and maybe just a little bit of disbelief. That’s exactly how we’re feeling after the Kiindred Awards, where the Elle TENS Plus took home not just the Parent Choice Award, but also the Expert Choice Award in the Parent Support category. Why it means so much These two awards perfectly capture what the Elle TENS Plus is all about. ✨ Parent Choice – chosen by mums who’ve used the device during labour and recovery, and know firsthand the comfort, confidence, and support it provides when it matters most. ✨ Expert Choice – judged by professionals who recognise the Elle TENS Plus as more than just a gadget. It’s a trusted tool backed by science, designed to empower women through labour, birth, and beyond. To have both parents and experts agree? That’s the kind of endorsement we couldn’t be prouder of. More than just a device The Elle TENS Plus has always been about more than pain relief. It’s about giving women options, control, and reassurance in moments that can feel overwhelming. It’s about helping partners feel involved. It’s about turning “I don’t know if I can do this” into “I’ve got this.” And these awards tell us that’s exactly what it’s doing. Looking ahead Just like bringing home twins, this double win means double the motivation to keep supporting parents in the best way possible. We’ll keep championing the importance of choice, confidence, and calm in the birth space. So, here’s to the Elle TENS Plus—winner of not one, but two awards. And here’s to every parent who trusted it during one of life’s biggest moments. 💛 👉 Ready to experience it for yourself? Buy your Elle TENS Plus today and discover why it’s loved by both parents and experts.

Learn more
Elle TENS Plus: Pain Relief for Labour, Postpartum & Beyond

Elle TENS Plus: Pain Relief for Labour, Postpartum & Beyond

One Device. Three Stages. Endless Support. Pregnancy and birth are incredible journeys, but they’re not just about one day in the delivery room. Your body goes through stages: early labour, active birth, and the recovery period that follows. The Elle TENS Plus is designed for all of them. With three unique modes - Labour Mode, Pain Mode, and Pelvic Mode, it’s the only maternity TENS machine that supports you from your first contraction through postpartum recovery and beyond. Stage 1: Labour: Take Control from the First Contraction The Elle TENS Plus isn’t just for the pushing stage; it’s most effective when you start using it in early labour. How it helps during labour: Labour Mode includes two burst patterns—one for early labour, one for rapid contractions. The Boost Button delivers instant extra relief during a contraction. Opti-Max Technology lets you increase intensity for peak moments. The built-in Contraction Timer records length and intervals so you (and your midwife) know exactly where you’re at. It’s small, portable, and clips onto clothing, allowing you to walk, move, or change positions freely, making it ideal for home or hospital births. Stage 2: Post-Birth: Supporting Your Recovery Once baby arrives, the focus shifts to healing, adapting, and caring for your new little one. The Elle TENS Plus switches easily into Pain Mode, which delivers gentle, therapeutic pulses to: Relieve neck and shoulder tension from long breastfeeding or bottle-feeding sessions. Ease afterbirth pains (common as the uterus contracts back to size). Support healing after caesarean or vaginal birth by encouraging healthy circulation. Provide comfort for period pain when your cycle returns. Help with everyday aches and pains, from a sore lower back to tight calves after a long walk. And here’s a little secret: the Elle TENS Plus isn’t just for mums. With an extra set of electrodes, even your partner can use it to relieve tension, muscle stiffness, or post-workout soreness. This versatility means the Elle TENS Plus stays useful long after your hospital bag is packed away, helping you manage a wide range of aches, safely and naturally. Stage 3: Beyond: Long-Term Pelvic Health Childbirth can take a toll on your pelvic floor. The Elle TENS Plus includes Pelvic Mode, transforming it into a pelvic floor exerciser to: Strengthen muscles and improve bladder control. Aid recovery from incontinence or pelvic floor weakness. Support long-term core stability and confidence. This makes the Elle TENS Plus a smart investment, not just for birth, but for ongoing women’s health. Why Choose Elle TENS Plus Over Other Options? Unlike single-purpose TENS machines, Elle TENS Plus is a 3-in-1 solution: Labour Pain Relief: portable, drug-free, and midwife-recommended. Postnatal Recovery: comfort and healing support. Pelvic Floor Training: ongoing health benefits well after birth. It’s reusable, adjustable, and designed with women’s real experiences in mind. Get Ready for Your Journey Have your Elle TENS Plus ready by 36 weeks so you can practise using it before labour begins. With Elle TENS Plus, you’re not just preparing for birth, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother recovery and stronger future. Buy yours today! https://elletens-old.ccdevhub.com/product/elle-tens-plus/

Learn more