TENS Machines for Pregnancy & Labour
Reduces labour pain for 98% of women.
For use from early labour until you can receive other pain management, or all the way through for a drug free birth. Recommended by midwives, Elle TENS is a must for every birth.
How does TENS help?
Through the placement of the electrode pads directly on your skin, Elle TENS helps relieves labour pain in two ways;
- Blocking Pain Signals: The Elle TENS is attached to electrode pads which are placed on your lower back, directly on the skin. The electrodes emit a harmless flood of electrical impulses to the nerves. Your brain can only process so much information at once, so your brain reduces the number of signals it will process, which in turn reduces the level of pain you consciously feel.
- Natural Pain Relief: These impulses also encourage your body to release endorphins and enkephalins, yournatural chemicals, that reduce pain.
What causes labour pain
Labour pain, or childbirth pain, is a complex sensation that arises from a combination of physiological and mechanical factors associated with the process of childbirth.
The primary causes of labour pain include:
- Uterine Contractions
- Cervical Changes
- Pressure on Pelvic Floor Muscles
- Stretching of Vaginal Tissues
- Engagement and Descent of the Baby
- Rupture of the Amniotic Sac
- Contractions of the Perineum
- Psychological Factors
- Back Labour
All of these sources of pain send electrical impulses to the brain, to inform you of what is happening. These pain messages are transferred via chemical messengers and these signals travel up your spine where your brain registers them. These pain sources and the level of pain varies between individuals. Labour pain however is largely accepted as one of the more painful experiences most people will go through in their lifetime. Having a plan on how you intend to manage the pain helps to have a more positive birth experience and can decrease the chances of postpartum mental health challenges.
Using a TENS Machine for Labour:
Electrode Placement:Place the electrodes on your or lower back: For labour pain, position all four large electrode pads on your lower back, two just below your bra line and the others just above your underwear line, as shown here.
Time for Use:
When to start: When you start to feel pain or discomfort and you are in active labour. Remember, it’s about finding the setting level which works best for you. You will also find the contraction timer and boost button particularly helpful as your labour progresses. It’s a good idea to start to use your Elle TENS on as soon as your labour starts, to generate pain relieving endorphins.
Frequency of Use:
Use as needed: TENS machines are safe for daily use. You can use it whenever you experience period pain. Some people find relief with multiple short sessions throughout the day.
Expected Sensations:
Tingling or buzzing sensations: When you turn on the TENS machine, you’ll feel a gentle tingling or buzzing sensation where the electrodes are placed, similar to pins and needles. It shouldn’t be painful. Adjust the intensity to a level that is comfortable but still effective in reducing pain. Electrodes should never be placed on your tummy during pregnancy or labour. Some Mums-To-Be are interested to understand how a TENS machine will feel prior to using it for labour. If you wish to test it you can place the electrodes on your forearm, and turn the device on to a low level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to use a TENS machine during pregnancy and labour?
Is it safe to use a TENS machine during pregnancy and labour?
Yes - TENS is considered safe to use during early labour and throughout childbirth. Many women also use it under guidance from their healthcare provider for late-pregnancy back pain. Electrodes should never be placed on the abdomen. Always check with your midwife, obstetrician or GP if you plan to use TENS before labour begins.
When should I start using a TENS machine during labour?
When should I start using a TENS machine during labour?
TENS works best when started in early labour, as this helps your body build natural pain-relieving endorphins. Most mums apply their TENS as soon as contractions become regular, or when they begin feeling lower-back discomfort.
Can I use a TENS machine alongside other forms of pain relief?
Can I use a TENS machine alongside other forms of pain relief?
Absolutely. TENS is compatible with most non-medicated comfort measures such as breathing techniques, movement, heat packs and massage. It can also be used right up until you choose to transition to other medical pain relief. The only exception is water immersion - you must remove the TENS before a shower or bath.
How do I know if I’ve placed the electrodes correctly for labour pain?
How do I know if I’ve placed the electrodes correctly for labour pain?
For labour, electrodes should be placed on the lower back only - two pads just below the bra line and two above the underwear line. This position targets the nerves responsible for labour pain. Correct placement improves both comfort and effectiveness; many parents practise this placement before labour.
What does a TENS machine feel like when it’s working?
What does a TENS machine feel like when it’s working?
Most people describe the sensation as tingling, buzzing or pulsing. It shouldn’t be painful. As contractions build, you can use the Boost button to increase intensity temporarily. The goal is to reach a strong but comfortable sensation that distracts from contraction pain.
Can I test my labour TENS machine before going into labour?
Can I test my labour TENS machine before going into labour?
Yes - in fact, it’s encouraged. You can test your device by placing the pads on your forearm and turning the unit on at a low intensity. This helps you become familiar with how TENS feels, how the controls work, and ensures everything is functioning before labour begins.
Is TENS suitable for all types of labour, including posterior or long labours?
Is TENS suitable for all types of labour, including posterior or long labours?
Yes. Many women find TENS especially helpful during back labour, where pain is intense in the lumbar area. Because TENS is portable and adjustable, it can support you through early labour at home, car travel, hospital labour, and long or slow labours where continuous comfort is important.
