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Why You Should Include a TENS Machine in Your Birth Plan
When you’re preparing for labour, your birth plan becomes your roadmap, outlining your preferences, goals, and the tools that will support you. One of the most powerful tools you can include? A TENS machine in your birth plan. Recommended by midwives and loved by thousands of women, TENS machines like the Elle TENS offer safe, drug-free pain relief from the very first twinge. What Is a TENS Machine? A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine is a handheld device that sends gentle electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pulses help to block pain signals and encourage the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers. Used from early labour, a TENS machine can help you stay calm, mobile and in control, especially in the hours before heading to the hospital. Why Include a TENS Machine in Your Birth Plan? Drug-free Pain Relief A TENS machine offers an entirely natural way to manage labour pain, making it ideal for those hoping to avoid or delay medical pain relief. Use at Home During Early Labour Many women spend the early stages of labour at home. A TENS machine provides a safe and effective treatment option that you can use immediately, eliminating the need to wait until you’re in the hospital. Empowering and Easy to Use With intuitive controls and boost buttons for contractions, Elle TENS machines are designed to help you feel confident and in control. Compatible with All Types of Birth Whether you’re planning a hospital birth, home birth or water birth (TENS for early stages), it’s a versatile support tool. And if your plans change? You can take it with you or remove it with ease. Don’t Leave It Too Late We recommend having your Elle TENS ready to go by 36 weeks pregnant. You can hire or buy directly from Elle TENS Australia, and delivery is fast, Australia-wide. Compare hire vs. buy here Explore the Elle TENS 2 unit to hire Explore the Elle TENS + unit to buy Real Stories, Real Results 💬 “I used my Elle TENS from the first signs of labour — it got me through the whole night until I was fully dilated and ready to push!” – Verified Customer 💬 “An absolute game changer. I wouldn’t give birth without it again.” – First-Time Mum And the stats say it all:98% of women report reduced labour pains using Elle TENS devices. That’s why midwives recommend it and mums rave about it. Hire or Buy – What's Right for You? Elle TENS Australia offers both options depending on your needs. Hire your Elle TENS 2 for a 6-week window, ideal for single births. Book between 30–32 weeks to receive it by 36 weeks. Buy if you want to use your TENS for future labours, postpartum recovery, or period pain. Every order includes: Instructions Genuine electrodes Delivery tracking Friendly support if you need help setting up Add Confidence to Your Plan There’s no way to predict exactly how labour will unfold, but with the right tools, you can feel ready. Including a TENS machine in your birth plan helps ensure you’re supported from the moment early labour begins.
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TENS Machine for Early Labour: Why It’s a Game-Changer
Labour doesn't always start with a bang; often, it's a slow build of contractions and uncertainty. That’s where using a TENS machine for early labour can be a total game-changer. Whether you’re at home waiting to head to the hospital or managing early signs of labour overnight, a TENS machine can provide natural pain relief, reduce anxiety, and help you stay in control. What Is a TENS Machine and How Does It Work? A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine sends mild electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pulses block pain signals, stimulate the release of endorphins (your body’s natural painkiller), and provide a welcome distraction from rising contractions. The Elle TENS 2 and Elle TENS Plus are specially designed for use in labour, with features like the Boost Button for contractions and clear pre-labour modes. Why Start Using It in Early Labour? There are several reasons why starting with a TENS machine in early labour makes a big difference: Earlier = More Effective: The sooner you start, the more effective the TENS can be. This allows your body to build up endorphins gradually. Comfort at Home: You can use the machine safely at home, helping you delay going to the hospital until you’re in active labour. Stay Calm and Focused: The soothing pulse patterns help many women relax through the uncertainty of early contractions. Feel in Control: Having a physical tool to manage discomfort can reduce feelings of fear or helplessness. 98% of women who use Elle TENS devices report reduced labour pain and early use plays a big part in that. Real Feedback From Real Women “Well what can I say being a first time mum, I was so unsure, a midwife had told me about it, I was starting to get what I thought was braxton hicks at 3.30pm. Little did I know it was the start to holding my son the next morning at 4am. The elle TENS carried me through until 12am that night all the way to the hospital, then with a little bit of gas on top of this little beautiful device, it then carried me through labour. I couldn't scream to the world any louder that this is a pregnancy MUST. Thankyou Elle TENS Team" - Stevee-lee B. Tips for Using Your TENS Machine in Early Labour Apply the pads as soon as you feel consistent contractions. Use the lowest setting first, and increase as needed. Familiarise yourself with the Boost Button; it’s perfect for peak contractions. Have your support person help with pad placement. Wear loose, comfy clothing and stay mobile while using it. Ready to Start Early, Calm and in Control? Using a TENS machine for early labour can help you feel confident, supported and in charge from your very first contraction. Whether you're planning a natural birth at home or a hospital birth with support, having your Elle TENS unit ready makes all the difference. You can hire a machine for a convenient and affordable option, or buy one to keep using it long after birth for period pain, postpartum recovery, or even future pregnancies. Explore our hire and buy options here and choose what works best for you.
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TENS Machine vs Other Labour Pain Relief: How Elle TENS Compares
Choosing the right pain relief method for labour is a big decision, and one that should be informed, personal, and flexible. If you're researching the differences between a TENS machine and other labour pain relief options, you’re not alone. From epidurals to breathing techniques, there are many ways to manage contractions. But more and more mums are turning to Elle TENS for a natural, empowering option that puts you in control, from the first contraction. In this blog, we’ll break down how a TENS machine for labour compares to other common methods to help you decide what feels right for your birth journey. What Is a TENS Machine and How Does It Help in Labour? A TENS machine (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) uses gentle electrical pulses on your lower back to block pain signals and release endorphins. The Elle TENS range is specially designed for labour, with features like: Boost button for contractions Pre-set modes for each labour stage Compact, portable design Safe, drug-free relief from early labour onwards TENS vs Gas (Nitrous Oxide) Gas is often used in hospital settings and can take the edge off pain, but side effects like nausea or dizziness are common. Elle TENS advantages: No medication Safe to use at home Keeps you alert and mobile Works instantly with no wait time TENS vs Epidural An epidural offers substantial pain relief but often limits movement, can prolong labour, and comes with potential side effects. TENS advantages: No needles or medication Keeps you upright and moving Ideal for early and active labour No impact on baby or birth experience 💡 Did you know?98% of women report reduced labour pain using Elle TENS devices. TENS vs Hypnobirthing & Breathing Techniques Mind-body methods like hypnobirthing offer excellent emotional support, but may not provide enough physical relief on their own. TENS advantages: Enhances focus and breathing techniques Offers physical support with no side effects Puts you in control of each contraction 📍 You can combine your TENS machine with hypnobirthing techniques for extra comfort. Why More Mums Choose Elle TENS Elle TENS is trusted across Australia for its simplicity, effectiveness, and midwife-approved design. You can hire or buy your unit directly from our official website. ✅ Hospital bag essential✅ Safe for first-time and experienced mums✅ Quick, trackable delivery✅ Free returns on hire units Final Thoughts: Choose the Labour Pain Relief That Works for You There’s no “right” choice — only the choice that works best for you. Whether you’re aiming for a natural birth or want options to stay flexible, the TENS machine vs other labour pain relief conversation is one worth having. By planning and packing your Elle TENS early (by 36 weeks), you’ll be ready, no matter how your labour unfolds. 📎 Want to learn more about hiring your unit? Visit our Labour TENS Hire Page.
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Are TENS Machines Safe to Use During Labour?
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.
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When Should I Book My Elle TENS Machine Hire?
Using a TENS machine during labour is a smart and empowering way to manage pain naturally. One of the most common questions we hear is:“When should I book my TENS hire?” The best time to book your Elle TENS hire is around 30 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s why that timing matters, and how the process works from booking to return. Why Use a TENS Machine for Labour? Elle TENS is one of the most popular choices for labour pain relief in Australia. It’s a handheld, drug-free option designed specifically for maternity use. The Elle TENS 2 unit provides advanced features such as: Optimax technology for extra pulse power during contractions Boost button for instant pain relief control Pre-set modes tailored for labour A timer to help track contractions Using a TENS machine early in labour helps maximise its effectiveness, which means having your hire kit ready beforehand. When Should You Book Your Hire? We recommend booking your TENS hire between 30 and 32 weeks of pregnancy, with the goal of having it delivered by 36 weeks — around four weeks before your due date. This timing ensures: Reliable delivery to your home Guaranteed availability during busy seasons Time to read the instructions and feel confident using the unit Peace of mind knowing it’s packed and ready in your hospital bag If you ever need to extend your hire or arrange an earlier delivery, just get in touch — we’re always happy to accommodate your needs. What’s Included in the Elle TENS 2 Labour Hire Kit? Each hire kit includes everything you need for safe and effective use: 1 x Elle TENS 2 maternity TENS unit 1 set of genuine Maternity Babycare/Elle TENS electrodes 2 lead wires 1 Lanyard 2 brand new AA batteries Easy to follow instruction card Reply paid Aust Post label for easy, hassle-free returns Elle TENS Wetbag, yours to keep, great for popping on your stroller for those emergency nappy changes You’ll also receive a copy of A Women’s Guide to Drug Free Pain Relief, by Dr. Gordon Gadsby. It’s full of useful information and helpful tips so you can get the most out of your TENS machine, including TENS techniques, acupressure and acupuncture without needles. Returning Your Unit Returning your Elle TENS hire is simple and stress-free. Just follow these quick steps: Place all items back into the original box your hire arrived in. Remove the old label and replace it with the prepaid return label we’ve included. Drop the satchel into any red Australia Post box or outlet — no printing or extra postage required. Once you're done, don’t forget to tag us @elletensau and share your birth story. We love hearing how Elle TENS supported your journey! "The Elle TENS team made this whole process so seamless and easy. Everyone was so generous and kind to get a machine to me when I needed it and beyond that, the machine made a huge difference to my birth experience. I felt much more in control of my pain management and i used the machine right until the end. It was so easy to use that we figured it out when I went into labour (but I wouldn’t recommend that 😂) Highly recommend giving this a try. I was quite anxious about the experience and ElleTENS definitely helped give me a sense of control over my pain and manage my labour." - Bec Booking your TENS hire early ensures you have everything ready when the time comes. It removes the stress of last-minute ordering and allows you to focus on preparing for your birth experience. Visit our Elle TENS Labour Hire page to secure your hire online. Fast, simple and reliable — the way birth prep should be.
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Why It Matters to Use Genuine TENS Electrodes
When preparing for labour, using a TENS machine can be an empowering, drug-free way to manage pain. But did you know that using the right electrodes — specifically genuine maternity-grade electrodes — is crucial for safety and effectiveness? Let’s explain why genuine electrodes matter and how to spot the difference. What Are Electrodes and What Do They Do? Electrodes are the sticky pads that deliver tiny electrical pulses from the TENS machine through your skin. These pulses help block pain signals to the brain and encourage endorphin release — the body’s natural painkillers. These pads are placed on the lower back over key nerve points for labour use. Because of their vital role, electrode quality can directly affect comfort and performance. What Happens if You Use Generic or Low-Quality Electrodes? While it may be tempting to buy cheap pads online or from other suppliers, here’s what can go wrong: ❌ Inconsistent adhesion: They may peel off mid-contraction or lose stickiness quickly ❌ Reduced conductivity: Weak or uneven current = less effective pain relief ❌ Skin irritation: Low-grade gel may cause rashes, burns or allergic reactions ❌ Incompatibility: They may not fit securely with your Elle TENS machine ❌ Warranty voided: Any electrodes that are used with the Elle TENS that are not genuine will void your device’s warranty This is especially risky during labour, when you want peace of mind, not troubleshooting! Why Use Genuine Elle TENS Electrodes? At Elle TENS Australia, all our hire kits include genuine Babycare Maternity electrodes, explicitly designed for labour. These pads are: ✔️ Latex-free and hypoallergenic ✔️ Designed for sustained use (up to 30 hours!) ✔️ Perfectly sized for optimal lower back placement ✔️ Compatible with your Elle TENS unit for peak performance ✔️ Passed medical testing and are authorised to be used with Elle TENS. If you’re buying your machine, we recommend adding an extra set — they’re great to have on hand and ensure consistent results when needed. How to Spot Genuine Electrodes To ensure you’re getting authentic, maternity-safe electrodes, look for these signs: ✅ Branded packaging (Babycare or Elle TENS) — sealed and professional ✅ Barcode and product label – often missing on counterfeit or generic versions ❌ No ziplock bags or unbranded pouches – these are not genuine and may be unsafe ✅ Purchased directly from Elle TENS Australia or an approved retailer When in doubt, contact us — we’re happy to confirm whether your pads are the real deal. How to Order Genuine Replacements Whether hiring or owning a unit, you can purchase authentic electrode sets directly through our Shop. Look for the Babycare or Elle TENS branding to ensure you get the real thing. Final Word Using a quality TENS machine is only part of the equation—don’t overlook the pads! Your comfort, safety, and results depend on them. Stick with what’s trusted. Stick with what works. Stick with genuine.
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Hiring vs Buying a TENS Machine – What’s Right for You?
Preparing for birth involves many decisions, and one common question we hear is:Should I hire or buy my TENS machine? At Elle TENS, we offer both options, each with advantages depending on your situation. This guide will help you choose the best fit for your birth plan, budget, and lifestyle. Why Use a TENS Machine in Labour? A TENS machine offers drug-free, side-effect-free pain relief, especially effective in early labour. It helps block pain signals and encourages endorphin release while giving you control with features like our Boost Button. Option 1: Hiring a TENS Machine Best if: You’re planning to use TENS for a single birth You want a more affordable short-term option You prefer a convenient, all-inclusive package What’s included when you hire from us: Elle TENS 2 TENS Machine – inbuilt contraction timer & boost button 1 set of genuine Maternity Babycare/Elle TENS electrodes Reply paid Aust Post label for easy, hassle-free returns Elle TENS Wetbag, yours to keep A copy of A Women’s Guide to Drug Free Pain Relief by Dr. Gordon Gadsby Benefits of hiring: Lower upfront cost Easy returns Ideal for occasional use Option 2: Buying a TENS Machine Best if: You’re planning multiple births or want to loan to friends You like having your device for future pain relief (e.g., period pain, back pain) You have private health cover that might offer a rebate What you get when you buy: A brand-new Elle TENS unit Lifetime ownership 1 set of genuine Maternity Babycare/Elle TENS electrodes Peace of mind – it’s always yours Benefits of buying: Use anytime, even beyond birth Cost-effective for growing families May be claimable via private health insurance Final Thoughts Both hiring and buying have their perks, and you can’t go wrong. At Elle TENS, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported, whichever option you choose. Still deciding?Check out our Hire a TENS or Buy a TENS pages — or message us if you have questions.
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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
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Compare the Elle TENS 2 vs Elle TENS Plus for Hire: Which is Right for Your Labour TENS Hire
As the authorised distributor of Elle TENS in Australia, we’re often asked about the differences between the Elle TENS Plus and the Elle TENS 2, particularly when it comes to your Labour TENS Hire. Let’s break it down for you: Elle TENS 2: Our Recommended Rental Choice The Elle TENS 2 is our go-to recommendation for mums-to-be looking to rent a TENS machine for labour pain relief. Here’s why: Specifically designed for labour pain management Easy to use with pre-set modes and a boost button for contractions Compact and portable Cost-effective rental option Elle TENS Plus: Great for Purchase, Not Ideal for Rental While the Elle TENS Plus is an excellent device, we don’t typically recommend it for rentals. Here’s why: The main difference is the post-birth incontinence management feature This feature requires a vaginal probe, which shouldn’t be used until about 12 weeks post-birth, given that a standard rental is between 6-8 weeks, its For short-term rentals focused on labour, this additional feature isn’t necessary Why We Recommend Elle TENS 2 for Rentals Focused functionality: The Elle TENS 2 provides everything you need for labour pain relief without extra features you can’t use immediately. Cost-effective: Why pay for features you won’t be using during your rental period? Simplicity: The Elle TENS 2 is straightforward to use, perfect for when you’re focused on labour. Your Safety is Our Priority Caution: At Elle TENS we only use genuine BabyCare TENS Electrodes. These have undergone medical testing and approval in both the UK and Australia, ensuring the safety of you and your baby. Please be aware of providers who may use inferior Electrodes. If you are unsure, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. While using inferior electrodes may void your device’s warranty, our primary concern is your well-being. We believe that your health and comfort during this important time are too precious to compromise with lower-quality products. That’s why we always recommend using approved, high-quality electrodes for the best and safest experience. Conclusion Whether you choose to rent the Elle TENS 2 or purchase the Elle TENS Plus for long-term use, you’re getting a high-quality, safe, and effective device for pain management. Remember, always consult with your healthcare provider before using any pain management techniques during pregnancy and labour. Ready to experience the benefits of TENS for your labour? Visit www.elletens.com.au to purchase or hire your Elle TENS device today!
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