Scroll Down for Terms and Conditions

Drug free pain relief in labour – what is it?

The Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine uses a small battery operated unit to provide a non-invasive and drug free method of helping to control labour pain.

You will receive a small unit with a digital screen, two wires, four electrode pads and a hand held booster button. The four self adhesive pads are placed on your back and the main unit clipped to your belt or waistband. With the booster button in your hand you are then able to control the level of pain relief you require.

The Labour TENS can be an effective technique for pain relief in over 80% of births with no side effects. With a TENS machine mild electrical impulses are transmitted through the skin via electrode pads, this modifies the body’s perception of pain.

The Birth TENS machine has a hand held booster button to change the stimulation frequency from low to high. The low frequency should be used for resting periods in between contractions and the high frequency as soon as a contraction is felt (20% more intense).

Evidence shows that to achieve the best results the TENS should be used from the onset of labour. In order 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.

What does it feel like?

Most people describe the sensation of the TENS machine as tingling or pins and needles.

Are there any side effects?

It is not thought that using TENS in labour has any adverse effects on either you or your baby. You are free to move around while using it and you can use it in conjunction with gas and air. However, you must remember it cannot be used if you want to try a birthing pool for pain relief and you can’t use it if you have a cardiac pacemaker.

When should I stop using or remove the machine?

When you remove the machine is completely up to you. It can be used in conjunction with gas and air to provide effective pain relief, and can be used for the duration of your labour. Often the effectiveness of the TENS machine is only realised once it has been removed.

When should I hire the TENS machine?

It is a good idea to book your TENS machine in early pregnancy (about 25-30 weeks) to avoid disappointment. It will then be dispatched in time for your 37th week. Do not worry if you have not ordered a TENS machine and you are nearing your due date just select immediate dispatch and we will dispatch the machine for delivery in 2 working days.

What if I go over my due date?

Do not worry as no extra charges will be incurred. When you hire the TENS you will be given a return date of 3 weeks after your due date. This should give enough time if your baby is overdue. If you do require more time please just let us know.

Can I use the TENS machine for backache?

You can use the TENS machine for back ache once you have reached 37 weeks in your pregnancy. Before this time you must check with your midwife.

Please allow 1-5 working days for delivery.

Where do I position the pads on my back?

Try to get help when positioning the pads. The electrode placement pads need to be positioned 40-50mm above and below an imaginary line drawn with the navel. 75mm apart on either side of the spine.

Can I test the machine before labour?

Yes definitely (ON YOUR FOREARM), we would recommend you familiarise yourself with the machine and how to use it. Do not worry about the adhesiveness of the pads as they can re-used several times (ensure no oils or creams are present on the skin). To test the machine you will need two pads, one wire and the boost button. Attach the wire to the machine (either side) along with the boost button. Attach the two pads to the terminals at the ends of the wire. Place the pads on your forearm (same arm). Turn on the machine and gently lift the level to about 6-10. You should start to feel a light tingling in your fingers. Once you have tested the machine remove all the wires and don’t forget to place the protective covers back on electrodes to prevent them from drying out. Pack the machine away carefully and wait for the big day.

Please note that we are only able to hire these units within the UK.

Terms and Conditions. Please read carefully!

1. Birth TENS Neurotrac Labour TENS should only be used in accordance with the instructions provided and only by the Customer named on the submitted form.

2. The effectiveness of the Birth TENS in your labour is not guaranteed.

3. The Birth TENS Neurotrc Labour TENS must NOT be used by anyone fitted with a cardiac pacemaker, who has a heart disease or suffers from epilepsy. If in doubt please consult a medical advisor prior to use.

4. Birth TENS Neurotrac Labour TENS must not be used until the pregnancy has reached 37 weeks gestation.

5. Failure to return the Birth TENS by the 'Due back date' may result in the Customer being charged £5 for every week over and above the hire period until the TENS unit is returned. If the unit is not returned for any reason the customer will be charged for that unit (see 7). All outstanding amounts will automatically be charged to the customer’s credit or debit card.

6. When returning the TENS unit the Customer must retain the certificate of postage for 3 months. In the event that the TENS is not received back at Birth TENS premises, the certificate of postage must be produced. Failure to do so renders the customer liable for the full retail value of the Birth TENS unit.

7. In the event of damage to, or loss of the Birth TENS by the customer, the full retail value less the hire charge is payable to Birth TENS by the customer.

8. Non-use of the hired Birth TENS is entirely at the discretion of the customer and no refund will apply once the machine has been dispatched.

9. Birth TENS are fully tested prior to dispatch. However, the liability of the Birth TENS shall not exceed the hire charge.

10. Any cancellation received prior to dispatch of the Birth TENS will be granted a refund less £3 administration charges.

10. The customer should check the contents of the hire pack upon receipt and familiarise herself with the Birth TENS and the instructions. The customer must advise Birth TENS of any problems whatsoever immediately. Birth TENS accepts no responsibility where the customer fails to do so and renders it impossible for Birth TENS to take any corrective action.

11. Please allow 7 working days for delivery of the Birth TENS.