Elle TENS FAQs

What is TENS?

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is an option available for women in labour to assist with pain relief. TENS units usually come in the form of a small hand held device with leads connected to sticky pads called electrodes which you attach directly to your skin. When the unit is switched on, small electrical impulses are delivered through the skin, via the electrode pads, into the nerve fibres below which you feel as a tingling sensation. The electrical impulses can reduce the pain signals going to the spinal cord and brain, which helps to relieve pain and relax muscles. They also stimulate the production of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers. The level of pain relief varies from person to person.

Is TENS safe?

The Elle TENS is made by Babycare TENS. Babycare has an active medical device license with Health Canada for the Elle TENS. TENS is recognised as a safe and highly effective method of pain relief and is regularly recommended by medical professionals. One in five women in the UK use TENS in their labour, and the number of New Zealand women using them is growing rapidly.

How does the Elle TENS work?

At the onset of labour, simply apply the four pads to your back as shown in the accompanying instructions and switch the TENS machine on (instructional video here and instruction manual here). You will feel a pleasant pulsing sensation. This will help to raise the level of your own pain relieving chemicals known as endorphins. When experiencing a contraction, press the booster button for the extra surge of power needed to combat the pain. When the contraction ends, press the booster button again – it is that simple!

To build up endorphins (the body’s natural pain relievers) the TENS needs to be in place for at least 40 minutes before the full effectiveness can be felt.   Often the effectiveness of the TENS machine is only realised once it has been removed. ​

How can I benefit from using a TENS during my labour?

• It’s an effective method of drug-free pain relief
• It's a non-invasive method of pain relief 
• No harmful effects on you or your baby 
• It can be used for a home or hospital birth
• May prevent the need for medical pain relief 
• You control it so you can use it exactly when needed and at what strength you prefer 
• You can put it on or take it off as needed
• It's portable and doesn’t restrict movement in labour 
• Recommended by midwives
• Many women swear by them
• It can safely be used when an external foetal monitor is in place
•  Most people can use a TENS unit safely. If you have epilepsy or any type of heart condition, please consult with your medical professional before using any TENS unit. Do not use a TENS unit if you have a pacemaker.

When should I start using my Elle TENS?

Use as early as you can after the onset of labour to allow time for your body’s pain relieving hormones to rise.

Can I use the Elle TENS if I am considering a water birth?

Yes, but not in the water itself.  The Elle TENS is an excellent method for coping before you can enter the birthing pool but cannot be used in water. It’s best to wait until you are at least 4-5 cm dilated and in active labour before entering the pool, so using the Elle TENS before then will help you cope.

Can I use it with other methods of pain relief or medications?

Yes, TENS is drug-free. Many women will use it conjunction with gas. For women who think they may want an epidural when labour becomes very intense, TENS can be helpful to get through the early part of labour until the point when it is appropriate to have an epidural placed.

When should TENS not be used?

• On open wounds that would interfere with the placement of pads;
• If there is a history of epilepsy or seizures;
• If you have a pacemaker;
• While labouring in water (but these are easily taken on and off before and after water use);
• With an epidural or if you have an internal foetal monitor (external foetal monitoring is fine);
• Before the 37th week of pregnancy (unless labour has begun).