Labour Lounge
Your go-to space for understanding your options and feeling confident using TENS when it matters most. Explore real birth stories from parents who used TENS during labour, along with supportive guidance to help you approach birth feeling calm, confident, and connected to your body as you welcome your baby into the world.
Birth Stories
Induced and ... Incredible!
Induction can feel overwhelming when it’s not part of your original birth plan. So many mums worry that it means losing control, more pain, or letting go of the birth experience they hoped for. Nikki's beautiful story is such a powerful reminder that even when birth takes an unexpected turn, you can still feel strong, supported, and deeply empowered. 🤍 My first birth was always planned to be an unmediated experience. Originally the plan was to use TENS and my birth comb through active labor and move into the water for transition/pushing phase. Unfortunately, when my water broke at 2am there was marconium present, which led to a fully monitored urgent induction - ruling out the opportunity of a water birth. In consultation with my midwife and OB, it was decided I would be induced with continuous monitoring using a Pitocin (Oxytocin) IV drip, increasing every 30 minutes. Within the first 2 hours the contractions became intense and I began using the TENS machine. This was a game changer for my labour - the sensation helped to relax me and created a focused pattern through each contraction. I continued to use the TENS machine throughout the entire labour as my main pain relief. Within 45 minutes I had gone from 3 to 10 cm with contractions 30 seconds apart. This was an incredibly intense and tiring experience. My sister-in-law operated the TENS machine, my husband massaged my back, I held a birth comb, and used gas during this 45 minutes period. Once I began pushing the only relief I had was the TENS machine, which I couldn’t be more thankful for the relief it provided. Within 40 minutes our baby boy was born At 3:08pm. Nikki
Learn more
Tayla’s toughest but most rewarding journey
Birth can be so unpredictable, but planning ahead helps you face whatever comes your way. Tayla showed incredible strength bringing little Charlie into the world. With her affirmations, her TENS machine, time in the water, and the support around her, she stayed calm and focused through every wave. Here’s her beautiful birth story. I went into labour at 4:45pm at 41+4, the day before my scheduled induction. Things started quickly, with contractions lasting around 45 seconds to 1 minute and coming every 2–3 minutes straight away. As soon as I began timing them, my app advised heading to the hospital. I decided to jump in the shower first so I could put my TENS machine on straight after. By 6pm, I called my midwife. Although my contractions were close together, they weren’t yet very painful, so she suggested monitoring for another hour and checking in again. I started using my TENS machine around this time and instantly loved it — it gave me something to focus on and a real sense of control. At 7pm, we began the 45-minute drive to the birth centre, and the TENS machine really helped keep me grounded during the car ride. By 9pm, my midwife checked me for the first time and I was 5cm dilated. I chose to get into the birth pool and stayed there until around 1am. My body had been involuntarily pushing for about an hour with no real progress, so I was checked again and found to be over 9cm, but with a small lip still not moving out of the way. At 1:30am, we made the decision to transfer to hospital by ambulance. This was a really challenging point for me, as I had to try to stop pushing and my mindset was shaken leaving my calm birth space. Once at the hospital, I used a remifentanil drip for about an hour, and shortly after I was fully dilated. At 3:38am, our baby boy Charlie arrived. It was by far the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but everything fades so quickly once you meet your baby. During labour I really leaned on reminders like “the only way out is through,” “you never have to do that contraction again,” and “this feeling is temporary.” I’m so proud of what my body achieved, and I reached my goal of not having an epidural.
Learn more
Natalie Planned an Epidural… But TENS Got Her Through
Natalie’s story is such a great reminder that birth doesn’t always go to plan — and sometimes we surprise ourselves with what we’re capable of. After planning for an epidural, Natalie found her TENS machine became an incredible source of support during her fast-moving induction labour. I want to share some of my birth story. I was induced and because I have a low pain tolerance, I’d always planned to have an epidural. My induction started at 9am, but it took until 4pm before I started having more frequently contractions. At this point I started using the TENS machine to help me through the pain. The machine worked like a charm, I felt quite relaxed and tried to walk more to help with labour. I was 6cm dilated when my waters broke around 6pm. Within 10 mins, I was 8 cm dilated. I asked for epidural 10 times, but they said it was too late! I used the “boost” button on the TENS during the contractions pretty much throughout my whole labour. I was so surprised with how amazing the machine was. It helped to relieve pain and somehow, I managed to push through. I don’t think I could have survived without it. My baby arrived safe and sound. Thank you so much. Natalie
Learn more
Fleur’s Positive Induction Birth Story with TENS
We're so grateful to lovely mums like Fleur who share their positive birth stories. Thank you for sharing Fleur and congratulations on the birth of your bubba."I was booked for an induction and honestly, I was terrified. I’d heard so many stories about inductions being much more painful than spontaneous labour, so I wanted to do everything I could to prepare. I came across Natal Care Naturally and decided to hire their TENS machine, hoping it would help me cope with the induction pain.I used the TENS machine throughout the two days it took for my induction to progress into established labour — and I truly believe it’s what got me through those early stages. It helped me stay calm and in control when the contractions were building. I only took it off when it was time to get into the birthing pool, and by that point my baby was born within 2 hours!The TENS machine really carried me through the some of the hardest parts of labour and made such a difference to my experience. I’m so glad I chose to use it. - Fleur
Learn more
Tens Talk
Can I use a TENS machine from 37 weeks for pain relief?
By 37 weeks pregnant, it’s very common for you to start feeling the physical strain of late pregnancy — especially lower back pain, pelvic girdle pain, hip discomfort, sciatica, Braxton Hicks, and general muscular aches. There are often limited pharmaceutical pain relief options available for these everyday pregnancy discomforts, or you may prefer not to take medication during pregnancy, which is why many mums look for safe, drug-free ways to help you cope during those final weeks. A TENS machine works by sending small electrical pulses through your skin to help block pain signals and encourage the release of endorphins — your body’s natural pain relief chemicals. Research around TENS use in late pregnancy (from 37 weeks) has shown particularly positive results for lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain, with studies finding meaningful reductions in pain intensity and improved mobility for many women. Evidence around Labour TENS also shows it is considered a low-risk, non-invasive pain relief option when used correctly, with no evidence of harm to you or your baby in healthy term pregnancies. For many women, the biggest benefit of using a TENS from 37 weeks isn’t necessarily removing pain completely, but helping your discomfort feel more manageable while you stay mobile, rested, calm, and relaxed toward the end of pregnancy. As always, if you'd like to use your TENS from 37 weeks, if you have any concerns, check with your midwife first. A few important safety notes: Do NOT use the TENS machine in water. Always remove it before entering a bath, shower, or pool. Do NOT use a TENS machine if you have a cardiac pacemaker. Do NOT use a TENS machine if you have epilepsy. Do NOT place the electrode pads on the abdomen, head, face, neck, across the heart, or over areas with metal implants. Only use the electrodes on unbroken skin. Stop use immediately if irritation occurs and seek medical advice. Check with your medical adviser before using if you have a heart condition, unexplained pain, metal implants, or any concerns at all. TENS should NOT be used before 37 weeks of pregnancy unless under medical supervision. If you’d like to use it earlier for back pain, please check with your midwife first. It is safe, however, to test the TENS on a low setting for a short time on your arm or your partner’s arm.
Learn more
Where do I place the electrodes?
Correct placement is key to making your TENS effective at blocking pain signals. Here's a quick run-down: 1. Clean and dry your skin – this helps the pads stick. 2. Peel pads carefully – hold the pad, not the wires. Keep the backing for storage and future use. 3. Top pads (CH1): Place ~4 cm either side of your spine mid-bra line. 4. Bottom pads (CH2): Place ~4 cm either side of your spine, mid-panty line. Placing the electrodes is not an exact science and everyone's back is different and everyone's needs are different. It's ok to move the electrode pads up or down to get the most effective relief. Ask your birth partner to read this information — they’ll need to know where to place the pads during labour!
Learn more
What’s the best TENS machine for labour?
Which TENS machine is best for labour? Choosing the right TENS machine for the best pain relief during labour is important. Learn about how TENS helps give you control over your pain relief during labour.
Learn more
How to get the most from your Labour TENS machine
Being prepared before labour starts means you’ll know exactly how to use your TENS machine effectively when contractions begin. Here’s how to make sure you get the very best from it. 1. Open it before labour begins When your TENS arrives, don’t put it away for “later.” Open the box. Read through the instructions. Check all the components are there. Apply 2 electrode pads to your upper and lower arm (or your partner’s), switch it on and press the + arrow until you feel a small tingling sensation. This helps you become familiar with the feeling and reassures you that everything is working properly before you actually need it. 2. Make sure your birth partner knows how it works When contractions are building, you don’t want your birth partner reading the instruction booklet mid-contraction. Before labour starts, make sure your partner knows: How to turn the unit on and off How to increase and decrease the intensity How and when to use the boost button How to care for the electrode pads When you’re focusing inward, your partner should feel calm and confident supporting you. 3. Know exactly where the pads go Correct pad placement makes a real difference to how effective your TENS will be. Place: Two pads either side of your spine at bra-strap level Two pads lower down, level with the “dimples” in your lower back, just above your bottom This positioning targets the nerves connected to uterine contraction pain. As you get closer to your due date, you might like to mark small crosses on your back with a washable marker. When labour begins, there’s no guesswork — just calm, clear action. 4. Take care of your electrodes Good contact with your skin equals better results. Between uses: Stick the pads back onto their plastic backing sheets Keep them clean and safe Make caring for them your partner’s job If the pads start to lose their stickiness, rub a few drops of water into the gel side before reapplying. The more securely they stick, the better your TENS will work. 5. Start earlier than you think One of the biggest secrets to TENS success is starting early. As soon as you realise labour may be beginning — even if contractions are mild — apply your TENS. Early use helps your body increase its natural endorphin production before contractions become strong. Endorphins are your body’s own pain relief hormones. Building them early gives you a stronger foundation as labour progresses. 6. Turn it up gradually When you switch your TENS on: Start at a low setting Gradually increase the intensity as contractions build As contractions intensify aim for a strong but comfortable buzzing sensation It may take a few contractions to get used to the sensation. That’s completely normal. You’re in control of the intensity at all times. 7. Use the boost button at the peak Your boost button is designed specifically for contractions. As each contraction rises and reaches its peak, press boost. You’ll feel a stronger, more wave-like stimulation that helps override the pain signals your body is sending. When the contraction ends, turn boost off. Resetting it each time means you’ll get the full benefit during your next contraction. 8. Keep moving Your TENS won’t restrict your movement — and movement can actually enhance its effect. Walking, swaying, leaning forward, using a birth ball, or staying upright can help you feel more in control and can support your baby’s descent. Follow what feels right for your body. 9. Give it time TENS doesn’t always feel dramatic straight away. It can take 30–60 minutes for you to notice the full benefit. Try not to give up too quickly. Like many natural tools, it builds effectiveness over time. 10. Adjust as labour intensifies As your contractions grow stronger, your TENS may not block all of the pain — and that’s okay. At this stage, it may: Take the edge off each contraction Give you something steady to focus on Help you feel more grounded and in control Even if you choose to use other pain relief options, your TENS can often stay on (unless you’re getting into water). 11. Layer your comfort options Your TENS works beautifully alongside other techniques such as: Massage Breathing techniques Hypnobirthing Acupressure or reflexology Medical pain relief if you choose it It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Think of your TENS as one supportive layer in your birth toolkit. 12. Remember — you’re in control Perhaps the most powerful thing about your TENS machine isn’t just the physical relief. You control the intensity.You control the boost.You decide when to turn it up, when to turn it down, and when to stop. That sense of control can be incredibly grounding during labour. Lastly Your Labour TENS machine is simple technology — but when you prepare well and use it early, it can be a steady, reassuring companion through each contraction. Practise with it. Trust it. Trust yourself. And remember — every contraction is bringing your baby closer to you.
Learn more
Natural Birth Hub
Why movement matters in labour
Labour is a process that works best when your body has space to move and respond naturally. The way you position yourself during labour can make a real difference to how your baby descends, how your contractions feel, and how supported and in control you feel throughout the experience. One of the simplest yet most effective strategies is staying upright and active wherever possible. Labouring in upright and active positions can help your baby move down more easily while also providing comfort and easing pain. There are many ways to stay upright: walking, rocking your pelvis, using pillows for support, slow dancing with your partner, sitting and swaying on a birth or peanut ball, kneeling and leaning, or using a birth sling for support. Focus on moving, working through your contractions, and pushing in the positions that feel most natural and comfortable for you. Staying upright and active during the first stage of labour is linked with shorter labours and less need for pain relief, while pushing and giving birth in upright positions is associated with lower pain levels and a more satisfying birth experience. Lying down during childbirth can work against the labouring body. It is great for brief moments of rest and gives the mother a chance to catch her breath, but try not to stay flat for too long. Trust your body to guide you into the positions that feel right — it can make labour feel more manageable and help things progress more smoothly.
Learn more
Who support you matters
Ultimately, who is present during your labour should be based on your wishes. Take some time to think about who will support you through each stage of labour and make this clear to your birth partner before labour.You might choose to have just your birth partner and midwife (and perhaps a doula) with you, or, depending on your culture, beliefs, and preferences, you may want to include whānau or other trusted support people to surround you during labour.In a Māori whānau, the people present are usually those closest to you and chosen by you, guided by whānau, tikanga, and whakawhanaungatanga (connection and relationships). This often includes your partner, mother, sisters, aunties, kuia (elder women), and sometimes other trusted whānau members. The presence of whānau is about more than support — it reflects the understanding that birth is a collective, family event, not something you experience alone.Choose the people who make you feel safe, supported, and truly at ease during labour. Whether it’s a small, private space or a room filled with whānau, what matters most is that you feel grounded, connected, and cared for. When your support circle reflects your values and wishes, it can positively shape your entire birth experience.
Learn more
Does induction hurt more? How to feel in control & prepared
If you’ve found yourself Googling “Is induced labour more painful?” — you’re not alone.It’s one of the biggest worries mums have when induction is mentioned. Not just what will happen, but how it will feel.And the honest answer is:It can feel more intense — but that doesn’t mean it has to feel overwhelming or out of control.With an induction, sometimes contractions can start more suddenly, become strong more quickly, and have less of a “break-in” period. But it’s not just about pain, it’s about how quickly things can build and how supported and prepared you feel.In spontaneous labour, your body gradually builds its own rhythm. Hormones rise slowly, contractions space themselves out, and your body has time to adjust.With induction, that natural build-up is often shortened. That’s why research shows induced labour is linked with higher rates of epidural use and further interventions — not because mums “can’t cope”, but because the pace can be more intense.But here’s what some mums don’t realise.You can prepare for this.Start pain relief early — not when things feel overwhelmingOne of the most powerful tools here is a TENS machine. Using it in early labour (including the induction “ramp-up” phase) can help your body release natural endorphins and stay calmer as things build.Understand your induction methodThere are different methods of induction in New Zealand and each feels different. Knowing what’s coming reduces fear massively.Stay involved in decisionsFeeling informed and included can genuinely change how labour feels.Keep your environment calmLow lighting, movement, and support all help your body work with labour, not against it.Induction doesn’t have to feel like something happening to you. With the right preparation, it can still feel grounded, supported, and manageable.
Learn more
Visualisation is POWERFUL!
Visualisation is a powerful, natural way to manage contraction surges. It’s frequently used by professional athletes to naturally enhance their performance, so why not in this highly physical performance!By mentally rehearsing birth, you prepare your mind and body to respond calmly and confidently. Instead of the unknown feeling overwhelming, it becomes something familiar, and that alone can reduce fear and tension.During pregnancy, take a few quiet moments to picture each stage of labour. Imagine how you’ll breathe, how you’ll move, and how you’ll stay relaxed as sensations build. See yourself coping, staying grounded, and working with your body.When labour begins, bring your focus inward. Visualise your cervix softening and opening with each surge. Picture your baby gently descending, your body guiding them down. Keep coming back to your breath—slow, steady, and rhythmic.You can also reframe contractions through imagery. Imagine each one as a wave, rising and falling, carrying you closer to meeting your baby.These small mental shifts can make a big difference to how labour feels.For even deeper relaxation, pair visualisation with a calming audio or have your birth partner guide you through it.Practise now, so it feels natural when you need it most.
Learn more