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Labour TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machines are supportive during labour for several reasons. The main reason i find that women wish to use them is because they want to have a natural vaginal delivery. TENS machine is a main pain relief tool in labour, supporting women to avoid pharmaceutical intervention which often leads to the cascade of interventions.

Reason to use a TENS machine in labour:

1. Pain Relief: TENS machines help manage pain by delivering small electrical pulses through electrodes placed on the skin. These pulses stimulate nerves, which can help reduce the perception of pain. The electrical stimulation can interrupt the pain signals sent to the brain, providing a natural form of pain relief.

2. Endorphin Release: The electrical pulses from a TENS machine can stimulate the production of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. This can enhance the overall feeling of well-being and further reduce pain.

3. Distraction: The sensation created by the TENS machine can serve as a distraction from the contractions and pain of labour. Focusing on the tingling sensation can help divert attention away from the discomfort.

4. Control and Autonomy: TENS machines give the user a sense of control over their pain management. They can adjust the intensity and frequency of the electrical pulses to match their comfort level and the intensity of their contractions.

5. Non-Invasive and Safe: TENS machines are a non-invasive and drug-free option for pain relief during labour. This makes them a safe choice for both the mother and baby, with minimal risk of side effects compared to pharmacological pain relief methods.

6. Ease of Use: TENS machines are relatively easy to use and can be administered by the user or a partner. This makes them accessible and convenient, allowing for continuous pain relief without the need for medical intervention.

7. Flexibility: TENS can be used in conjunction with other pain relief methods, such as breathing techniques, water births, or even pharmacological options if needed. This flexibility allows for a more personalized approach to managing labour pain.

Overall, the combination of pain relief, endorphin release, distraction, control, safety, ease of use, and flexibility makes labour TENS machines a supportive tool for many women during childbirth.

There are a few great labour TENS machines on the market for purchase or hire. 

Elle Plus TENS is an advanced machine that supports you in labour as well as after birth for any after birth pains. It times your contractions and it has a back light so you can see what you are doing when using it. 

Elle 2 TENS is a perfect machine for labour only. It also times your contractions and has a back light.

The Neurotrac Obstetric TENS is quite popular at the Obstetricians office or with physiotherapists, has a boost mode in a seperate hand held handle that connects to the machine & backlight. 

You can find all these labour TENS machines on our website to hire with either a 4 week or 8 week hire period, shipped Australia wide. 

Thanks for catching this page.

Mirjana