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What is Labour TENS?
What is Labour TENS?
What is Labour TENS?
Labour TENS is a small, battery-operated device used to manage labour pain. It works by helping your body release endorphins and by blocking sharp pain signals to your brain.
TENS stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. The machine sends gentle electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your back. You control the intensity yourself and can adjust the stimulation as your contractions intensify.
Labour TENS is portable, drug-free and allows you to remain mobile during labour. It can be used at home during early labour and can form part of your overall pain-management plan. It is particularly good if you are aiming for a non-medical birth.
How does a TENS machine work?
How does a TENS machine work?
A TENS machine sends small, safe electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your back.
During labour, the stimulation is thought to help change the way pain signals are processed by the nervous system. TENS may also encourage the release of your body's natural pain-relieving chemicals, including endorphins.
Exactly how TENS reduces the sensation of pain isn't completely understood. Some women also find that having control over the intensity of the stimulation gives them something active to focus on during contractions.
Does Labour TENS actually work?
Does Labour TENS actually work?
Labour TENS can help women manage the intensity of labour, but it doesn't completely remove pain and it doesn't work equally well for everyone.
TENS effectiveness can vary from one person to the next. Some women find TENS particularly useful during early labour, while others find they need additional pain relief as labour becomes more intense. Other women find TENS is all they need to manage throughout their entire labour.
One of the main benefits of having Labour TENS available is that it gives you another drug-free pain-management option that you control yourself.
Think of TENS as another tool in your birth toolkit, rather than something that guarantees pain relief throughout your entire labour.
Is Labour TENS drug-free?
Is Labour TENS drug-free?
Yes. TENS is a drug-free form of pain management.
It doesn't involve medication, injections or anaesthetic. Instead, it uses gentle electrical stimulation delivered through electrode pads placed on your skin.
Because TENS doesn't involve medication, there are no side-effects for mum or baby and no recovery time.
TENS does not interfere with your movement during labour and it can be alternated, or used in conjunction with other forms of pain relief.
What does TENS feel like?
What does TENS feel like?
TENS usually feels like a tingling, buzzing or pulsing sensation underneath the electrode pads.
You control the intensity of the stimulation. It's a good idea to start gently and gradually increase it until it feels strong but comfortable.
During labour, you may choose a lower setting between contractions and increase the stimulation as a contraction builds. The sensation can feel unusual when you first try TENS, which is why it's a good idea to familiarise yourself with the machine before labour.
Does TENS hurt?
Does TENS hurt?
TENS shouldn't hurt when it is being used correctly.
The sensation can feel strange or intense, particularly when you first use it, but you control the strength of the stimulation. Start at a low intensity and gradually increase it to a level that feels strong but comfortable.
If the stimulation becomes uncomfortable or painful, turn the intensity down.
It's worth trying your Labour TENS before labour so you know what the sensation feels like and are familiar with the controls before you need it. Just remember that if you are trying TENS before labour, it will feel very different when you are mid-contraction.
Is TENS safe for mum and baby?
Is TENS safe for mum and baby?
TENS has been used for pain relief during childbirth for almost 50 years. Research on its use in labour dates back to the 1970's. Since then, TENS has been studied in numerous clinical trials and systematic reviews involving women in labour.
A Cochrane review identified 19 studies and reported NO adverse events in the studies reviewed. Provided the safety instructions are followed, TENS is safe for use during labour.
Can I take TENS into hospital?
Can I take TENS into hospital?
Yes! TENS is widely used in maternity care and all hospitals and birthing units in New Zealand allow it as part of a birth plan. Note that you may be asked to remove it if you have specific interventions.
What are the benefits of using a Labour TENS?
What are the benefits of using a Labour TENS?
Labour TENS can be a useful drug-free option for managing the sensations of labour, particularly during early labour. It is portable, non-invasive and gives you control over the level of stimulation throughout your labour.
Potential benefits include:
- Drug-free pain management — TENS doesn't involve medication, injections or anaesthetic.
- You control it — you can adjust the intensity yourself and increase the stimulation as contractions become stronger. Having control over your own pain relief can be empowering.
- You can stay mobile — you can walk, change positions and use a birth ball while wearing a portable Labour TENS.
- It can be started early — you can begin using it at home during early labour, and it can help you feel comfortable for longer at home.
- It gives you something active to focus on — some women find the sensation and control of TENS helpful during contractions.
- It can be used alongside other labour techniques — massage, hypnobirthing, movement.
- No recovery time from medication — because TENS doesn't involve drugs, there are no medication-related effects to wear off after using it.
- Birth partners can take an active role in supporting the use of TENS.
What's the best TENS machine for labour?
What's the best TENS machine for labour?
If you're planning to use TENS during labour, look for a TENS machine specifically designed for childbirth (an obstetric or Labour TENS) rather than a standard TENS machine designed primarily for general pain, physiotherapy or sports recovery.
A Labour TENS is designed around the changing pattern of contractions and should ideally have:
- A Boost button so you can quickly increase the stimulation during a contraction.
- Adjustable intensity so you can control the strength of the stimulation yourself. A Labour TENS will go to a higher intensity than a regular physio TENS.
- Labour-specific settings or programmes designed for use during contractions.
- Simple, easy-to-use controls that you can operate during labour.
- Portable, battery-powered design so you can remain mobile and take it between home and your place of birth.
- Electrode pads designed for placement on the back during labour.
What is the difference between Elle TENS and Elle TENS 2?
What is the difference between Elle TENS and Elle TENS 2?
The Elle TENS is the original, proven labour TENS unit — simple, reliable, and designed specifically for contraction pain that comes and goes in waves and increases in intensity.
The Elle TENS 2 is the upgraded model, with improvements focused on visibility, timing, and ease of use during labour.
Key real differences with the Elle TENS 2:
Improved screen + backlight:
Easier to read in low light during labour, especially at night or in a dim birth space.
Contraction timing display:
Helps you and your birth partner keep track of contraction length and spacing, making it easier to understand progress and update your midwife when needed.
Optimised interface (simpler control during labour):
Clearer layout and more intuitive buttons so you or your birth partner can adjust settings quickly and confidently when things intensify.
How to use a Labour TENS
How do I set up & use my Labour TENS?
How do I set up & use my Labour TENS?
If you’ve just received your Labour TENS, we recommend testing it first so you can get familiar with how it works and check everything is working properly.
If you’re ready to set it up straight away, follow the quick start guide below. Full instructions are included with your unit or you can download the manufacturer's instructions below.
Quick Start Guide
1. Apply the electrodes
Follow the instructions on the electrode packet and place the four pads onto your lower back.
Don’t have the packet handy?
>ELECTRODE PLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS
2. Insert the batteries
Pop the batteries into the TENS unit.
3. Check the machine is off
Make sure the TENS machine is switched OFF and the BOOST button is OUT (not pressed in).
4. Connect the lead wires
Attach one lead wire to the top pads and the other to the bottom pads — either way around is fine.
5. Turn the TENS on
Press the pink power button to switch the unit on.
6. Start gently in BURST mode
Use the + channel buttons to slowly increase the intensity.
Your TENS will start in BURST mode, which creates a gentle pulsing or tingling sensation. Start low and gradually increase until you can comfortably feel it. It shouldn’t hurt — just feel like a pleasant distraction helping your body release natural endorphins.
7. Use BOOST during contractions
When a contraction begins, press the BOOST button on the side of the unit.
This switches the machine into BOOST mode, giving you a stronger continuous sensation designed to help block pain signals during contractions.
8. Release BOOST after the contraction
Once the contraction passes, simply let go of the BOOST button and the machine will return to BURST mode automatically.
9. Try different modes as labour progresses
Your TENS starts in MODE 1, which is ideal for early labour.
As contractions become stronger, you may prefer MODE 2, which offers a different and stronger stimulation pattern. Press the MODE button to switch between settings and use whichever feels best for you.
If you’re using an Elle TENS 2 or Elle TENS +, you can also explore the Opti-Max function for additional variation.
10. Adjust upper and lower pads separately
You can increase or decrease the intensity on the upper and lower pads independently to find what feels best for your body.
Watch our videos
Download Full Instructions
Manufacturer’s Full Instructions
Visual Quick Start Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start using my Labour TENS?
When should I start using my Labour TENS?
Labour TENS is best started in early labour, while contractions are beginning and becoming more regular. Starting early helps your body release those important endorphins needed to manage pain.
Starting early also gives you time to become comfortable with the sensation and familiarise yourself with the controls before contractions become more intense.
You don't need to wait until your contractions become very intense before turning your TENS on. In fact, getting comfortable with your Labour TENS early can make it easier to use when labour intensifies.
Can I use TENS before labour starts?
Can I use TENS before labour starts?
A Labour TENS is primarily used for pain management once labour begins, but with consultation with your midwife or doctor, a TENS can be used from 37 weeks of pregnancy, for pregnancy-related back pain.
Research into TENS for pregnancy-related lower-back pain is encouraging. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that TENS was among the non-drug interventions that showed benefit for pregnancy-related low-back pain.
Te Whatu Ora maternity guideline states that TENS can be used from 37 weeks and provides guidance for its use during labour.
Is TENS only good for early labour?
Is TENS only good for early labour?
TENS can be used anytime throughout labour. It is best used from early labour, but many women keep their TENS on throughout most or all of their labour. While you're finding it effective, keep using your TENS. As your contractions intensify, keep increasing the intensity settings on your TENS.
Should I practice using a Labour TENS before labour?
Should I practice using a Labour TENS before labour?
Yes. It’s a good idea to practise using your Labour TENS before labour starts so you feel confident using it when contractions begin.
You can test and try out your Labour TENS by applying the pads to your arm. Stick one pad to your upper arm and the other pad to your lower arm.
Getting familiar with your TENS beforehand means you can focus on your labour rather than figuring out the controls when contractions are underway.
How do I test my TENS machine before labour?
How do I test my TENS machine before labour?
Please test your TENS machine when it arrives to make sure everything is working correctly and so you can become familiar with how it works. Please follow the instructions carefully.
Help required? If you need urgent help, call us on 021 054 0251. If you need further assistance testing your unit:
You can watch our short video or follow the step-by-step instructions below.
1. Firstly, check you have all components needed for testing: TENS unit, 2 purple cords, 4 sticky electrodes, 2 batteries.
2. Put the 2 batteries into the unit.
3. Plug one purple cord into the left-hand side of the unit.
4. Open up the sticky electrodes. Take one set of electrodes from the clear backing (keep the clear backing sheet on the table next to you, so when you've finished testing the unit you can reapply the sticky electrodes).
5. Stick one electrode to your upper arm (bicep). It must be stuck to your skin.
6. Stick the other electrode to your lower arm (forearm). It must be stuck to your skin and you must stick TWO electrodes to your arm.
7. Plug the white electrode cables into the purple cord which is attached to the left-hand side of the unit. One in red, one in black.
8. Turn on the TENS machine using the pink button.
9. Push the button CH1 + (on the left-hand side), until your fingers start to twitch. This should happen when you get up to around level 7 on the screen.
10. Remove the sticky electrodes and place them back on the clear sheet.
11. Take the second purple cord and put it into the right-hand side of the TENS machine.
12. Remove the second set of sticky electrodes and repeat the testing. Ensure you press the CH2 + button on the right-hand side of the TENS unit.
Note: The backing on the electrodes is very sticky. If you look after them carefully, they can be put on and off the skin multiple times.
How long can I use TENS during labour?
How long can I use TENS during labour?
You can generally use your Labour TENS throughout your labour, for as long as it is helping and you feel comfortable. Many women start using it in early labour and continue through active labour.
Some women use TENS in combination with hypnobirthing techniques, massage, movement or air/gas. Other women alternate using a TENS with getting into a shower or bath. Remember to remove the TENS before entering water.
Can I walk around while wearing TENS?
Can I walk around while wearing TENS?
Yes. Labour TENS allows you to stay mobile during your labour. It is designed for you to stay mobile. The handheld controller is small and fits comfortably in your hand and it comes with a lanyard so you can also wear it around your neck or clip it to your top.
Where do the TENS pads go during labour?
Where do the TENS pads go during labour?
How strong should I have my Labour TENS?
How strong should I have my Labour TENS?
Start with the intensity at a low, comfortable level, then gradually increase it until you feel a strong but comfortable tingling sensation.
There’s no “correct” number or setting—it should feel right for you. As your labour progresses and contractions become stronger, you may find you want to gradually increase the intensity.
Elle TENS machines have 15 levels.
During contractions, press the Boost button for a stronger sensation, then return to your normal setting afterwards.
The key: Your Labour TENS should feel strong and noticeable, but it should never be painful or uncomfortable.
How do I use the Labour TENS boost button?
How do I use the Labour TENS boost button?
Press the boost button during a contraction. If you can, hold off pressing the boost button until you are at the peak of your contraction, which is when you'll need it most.
Can I use Labour TENS in hospital?
Can I take my Labour TENS to hospital?
Can I take my Labour TENS to hospital?
Yes. Midwives and maternity hospitals are very happy for you to use a Labour TENS. You can use your Labour TENS at home, in the car on the way to hospital and while you are in the hospital.
Can I use a Labour TENS if I'm being induced?
Can I use a Labour TENS if I'm being induced?
During a spontaneous labour, your body's natural pain-relief response develops as labour progresses. With an induction, contractions can sometimes become stronger and more frequent relatively quickly, so having TENS available from the beginning gives you a drug-free pain-management tool straight away, rather than waiting until contractions become difficult to cope with.
Labour TENS can be particularly useful during an induction because it provides drug-free pain relief while your body adjusts to induced contractions.
TENS stimulates the nerves and may encourage the release of endorphins – your body's natural pain-relieving chemicals. It may also help reduce the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Some maternity hospital in New Zealand have TENS machines specifically for women having inductions, but they are not always available so it is important to have your own.
Can I use TENS while having contractions monitored?
Can I use TENS while having contractions monitored?
Yes, in most cases. Labour TENS can generally be used while your contractions are being monitored with an external CTG. A CTG uses sensors placed on your abdomen to monitor your baby’s heartbeat and your contractions.
If a fetal scalp electrode (FSE) is needed to monitor your baby’s heartbeat, you will need to stop using TENS, as TENS can interfere with the monitoring signal.
Always tell your midwife that you are using TENS, and follow their advice if they need you to temporarily switch it off.
Can I use my Labour TENS with a fetal monitor?
Can I use my Labour TENS with a fetal monitor?
Yes, you may be able to use Labour TENS while your baby is being monitored externally, but always tell your midwife you are using TENS. If a fetal scalp electrode is being used, TENS will need to be switched off. Your midwife will advise you if it needs to be temporarily stopped for any other monitoring or procedure.
Can I use my Labour TENS after my waters have broken?
Can I use my Labour TENS after my waters have broken?
Yes. You can generally use your Labour TENS after your waters have broken, as long as you are not in water and your midwife or doctor is happy for you to use it. Keep the electrodes on your back and contact your midwife when your waters break for advice.
Can I use my Labour TENS with gas and air?
Can I use my Labour TENS with gas and air?
Yes. Labour TENS can be used alongside gas and air (Entonox). They work in different ways, so you can use TENS continuously and breathe in gas and air during contractions when you need additional pain relief. NHS maternity guidance specifically confirms that TENS can be used with Entonox.
Using both can give you two different forms of pain relief: TENS provides continuous stimulation that may help reduce the perception of pain, while gas and air acts quickly during contractions.
You can start with TENS and add gas and air later if you feel you need more pain relief.
Can I use my Labour TENS with an epidural?
Can I use my Labour TENS with an epidural?
Even if you know you want an epidural, depending on your individual circumstances, you may be encouraged to stay at home during early labour until your contractions become more established.
TENS gives you a drug-free way to manage contractions while you're at home, travelling to hospital and waiting for your epidural.
Once you go to hospital, you can ask for an epidural, but there may be a wait for the anaesthetist and for the epidural to take effect.
Once your epidural is being inserted, you will need to switch off and remove your TENS as directed by your maternity team.
What is the best Labour TENS machine?
What's the best TENS machine for Labour?
What's the best TENS machine for Labour?
A labour-specific TENS machine is designed very differently from a standard physiotherapy model — and understanding why can help you choose the best one for birth.
CHOOSING THE BEST LABOUR TENS MACHINE
Should I use the Elle TENS or the Elle TENS 2?
Should I use the Elle TENS or the Elle TENS 2?
The Elle TENS is the original, proven labour TENS unit — simple, reliable, and designed specifically for contraction pain that comes and goes in waves and increases in intensity.
The Elle TENS 2 is the upgraded model, with improvements focused on visibility, timing, and ease of use during labour.
Key real differences with the Elle TENS 2:
Improved screen + backlight:
Easier to read in low light during labour, especially at night or in a dim birth space.
Contraction timing display:
Helps you and your birth partner keep track of contraction length and spacing, making it easier to understand progress and update your midwife when needed.
Optimised interface (simpler control during labour):
Clearer layout and more intuitive buttons so you or your birth partner can adjust settings quickly and confidently when things intensify.
What is the best brand of TENS machine for labour?
What is the best brand of TENS machine for labour?
The Elle TENS range of Labour TENS machines are specifically designed for labour and include all the important features you need. Body Clock Health Care are the UK manufacturers of Elle TENS and they have been established since 1989, giving them more than 35 years of experience in TENS technology.
What is the best Labour TENS Hire company in New Zealand?
What is the best Labour TENS Hire company in New Zealand?
The best Labour TENS hire company is one that provides a genuine obstetric TENS machine, reliable delivery, plenty of time to practise before labour, clear instructions and phone support when you need it.
Natalcare Naturally has been providing Labour TENS hire in New Zealand since 2006, with more than 39,000 births supported. We offer the award-winning Elle TENS and Elle TENS 2, both specifically designed for labour.
Our six-week hire includes the TENS machine, brand-new electrode pads, batteries, instructions, prepaid return postage, free shipping to non-rural addresses, telephone support and additional pregnancy and birth resources.
For mums looking for an experienced, New Zealand-based Labour TENS hire company with nationwide delivery and support plus hundreds of 5 star reviews, Natal Care Naturally is a trusted choice.
Labour TENS for Different Types of Labour & Birth
Can I use Labour TENS for an induction?
Can I use Labour TENS for an induction?
Yes. It is a very good to start using a Labour TENS machine early in the induction process. Induced labour can be more intense than spontaneous labour, so having your Labour TENS ready can give you something you can control yourself as contractions become stronger.
A Labour TENS helps your body release endorphins, the natural chemical released in your body to help you manage pain.
Can I use Labour TENS for a home birth?
Can I use Labour TENS for a home birth?
Absolutely! Labour TENS is a useful drug-free pain-relief option for home birth. It can be used throughout labour to help you manage contractions, while allowing you to remain mobile and in control of the intensity.
The Wellington Home Birth Association includes TENS among its home-birth pain-relief options and says it can help women manage labour pain and assist the body to build up natural endorphins.
TENS is particularly suited to home birth because you can control the intensity yourself and use it while moving around your home. You will need to remove it before getting into a bath or birth pool.
Can I use a Labour TENS in combination with hypnobirthing techniques?
Can I use a Labour TENS in combination with hypnobirthing techniques?
Absolutely. Labour TENS and hypnobirthing work well together. TENS provides physical stimulation to help manage the sensations of contractions, while hypnobirthing uses breathing, relaxation, visualisation and mindfulness to help you stay calm, focused and in control.
You don't have to choose between TENS and hypnobirthing — they can complement each other beautifully.
Can I use a Labour TENS if I'm having a water birth?
Can I use a Labour TENS if I'm having a water birth?
Yes. You can use your Labour TENS before getting into the birth pool, but TENS must be removed before you enter the water. TENS is an electrical device and should not be used in a bath, shower or birth pool.
This doesn't mean you have to choose between TENS and a water birth. Labour can take many hours, and you may spend a significant part of your labour at home or out of the pool before getting into the water. Health NZ recommends TENS particularly for early labour and while at home.
You can use your TENS while you're labouring at home, travelling to your birth location and during the earlier stages of labour. When you're ready to get into the pool, simply switch off and remove the TENS and electrodes. If you get out of the pool later, you can use your TENS again once your skin is completely dry.
So having a water birth doesn't mean you can't benefit from Labour TENS — it gives you another pain-management tool to use during the hours of labour when you're not in the water.
Can TENS help with posterior labour?
Can TENS help with posterior labour?
Yes. Labour TENS may be particularly helpful if you experience posterior labour (“back labour”), when contractions are felt strongly in the lower back. The electrode pads are placed on the lower back, close to where these sensations are often felt. TENS works by sending gentle electrical impulses through the skin, which may help reduce the transmission of pain signals and may also stimulate the release of endorphins.
Hiring a Labour TENS machine in New Zealand
Where can I get a Labour TENS machine?
Where can I get a Labour TENS machine?
You have three options: buy, borrow or hire a Labour TENS machine.
It’s important to use a TENS machine specifically designed for labour, often called a Labour TENS or Obstetric TENS. A standard physio-type TENS is not designed for the needs of labour.
Because a quality Labour TENS is more expensive and is typically only used for one or two births, hiring can be a more practical and affordable option.
When hiring from a reputable company, your Labour TENS will arrive ready to use, with everything you need and plenty of time to practise before labour.
If you borrow one, make sure it is in good working order, includes everything you need, has brand-new electrode pads and comes with full instructions. Ideally, have it around three weeks before your due date so you can practise using it and are prepared if labour starts from 37 weeks.
When should I hire a Labour TENS machine?
When should I hire a Labour TENS machine?
You can hire a TENS machine anytime during your pregnancy but the second trimester is a good time.
If you have left it late, then you can still go ahead and book a TENS. Shipping is usually very quick.
When booking your TENS, a booking calendar will pop up. Count back 23 days prior to your due date. This will allow you 3 weeks before your due date to test and try out the TENS and you'll have your TENS on hand in case baby comes early.
How long should I hire a TENS machine for?
How long should I hire a TENS machine for?
A 6-week hire period is recommended. Why?
Babies don’t always follow the due date - Only around 5% of babies arrive on their exact due date. Some come early, while others take their time — so we give you 3 weeks before and 3 weeks after your due date for baby to arrive.
Start using it from 37 weeks if you need discomfort relief - Your TENS isn’t just for labour. It can help with pregnancy discomforts like back pain, pelvic pain and sciatica in those final weeks. Check with your midwife first
Be ready whenever labour begins - You and your birth partner will need time to
read the instructions, try it out, and understand how it works.
Support during postpartum recovery - Many mums use their TENS after birth while their body is healing - for back and
pelvis pain relief.
Because newborn life is beautifully chaotic! - Many parents tell us they were grateful to have extra time to return their TENS without another deadline to worry about.
Where can I hire a Labour TENS machine in New Zealand?
Where can I hire a Labour TENS machine in New Zealand?
The best Labour TENS hire company is one that provides a genuine obstetric TENS machine, reliable delivery, plenty of time to practise before labour, clear instructions and phone support when you need it.
Natalcare Naturally has been providing Labour TENS hire in New Zealand since 2006, with more than 39,000 births supported. We offer the award-winning Elle TENS and Elle TENS 2, both specifically designed for labour.
Our six-week hire includes the TENS machine, brand-new electrode pads, batteries, instructions, prepaid return postage, free shipping to non-rural addresses, telephone support and additional pregnancy and birth resources.
For mums looking for an experienced, New Zealand-based Labour TENS hire company with nationwide delivery and support plus hundreds of 5 star reviews, Natal Care Naturally is a trusted choice.
What is included when I hire a Labour TENS machine?
What is included when I hire a Labour TENS machine?
At Natal Care Naturally we include everything you need in one simple package:
- Elle TENS device
- 4-pack self-adhesive electrodes (40mm x 100mm)
- 4 x AA batteries (2 for use and 2 spare)
- Easy-release neck cord
- Storage case
- Instruction guide
- Electrode placement guide
- Return instructions and prepaid bag
You’ll also receive a copy of Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond (ebook) and an amazing Mum-to-Be Sample Pack.
Shipping is FREE to non-rural addresses.
Getting the most out of your Labour TENS: Best practice
How can I get the most out of my Labour TENS machine?
How can I get the most out of my Labour TENS machine?
Being prepared before labour starts means you’ll know exactly how to use your TENS machine effectively when contractions begin.
Where do I place the TENS electrodes?
Where do I place the TENS 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!
What are the safety guidelines for Labour TENS?
What are the safety guidelines for Labour TENS?
Before you get started, here are a few important safety guidelines to keep in mind. We want you to feel confident and reassured using your Labour TENS machine, and these simple precautions help ensure it’s used safely and effectively.
If you’re ever unsure, your midwife or healthcare provider is always the best person to check with.
- 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 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.
If you have any doubts or would like further guidance speak with your midwife.
How can my Birth Partner help with Labour TENS?
How can my Birth Partner help with Labour TENS?
Your birth partner can be a great help by learning how the Labour TENS works before labour starts, so you don't have to think about the controls when you're having contractions.
Before labour, they can:
- Read the instructions and practise using the controls.
- Learn where and how to position the electrodes on your lower back.
- Know how to increase or decrease the intensity and use the Boost button during contractions.
- Help look after the electrodes between uses so they stay clean and sticky.
- Make sure the TENS is cleaned, packed and returned on time after the birth.
During labour, your birth partner can help place the electrodes, adjust the intensity if you ask them to, and remind you to use Boost when a contraction starts.
Tip: Have your birth partner practise with the TENS before labour too. The more familiar they are with it, the more confidently they can support you when you need it most.
How can I combine Labour TENS with other pain-relief techniques?
How can I combine Labour TENS with other pain-relief techniques?
Labour TENS works well as one tool in your overall birth toolkit. You can combine it with other drug-free techniques throughout labour and add medical pain relief if you need it.
Try combining TENS with:
- Breathing and relaxation – focus on slow, steady breathing while using TENS.
- Hypnobirthing – use visualisation, affirmations and relaxation techniques alongside TENS.
- Movement and position changes – walk, sway, kneel or lean forward while keeping TENS on.
- Massage and counter-pressure – your birth partner can massage or apply pressure to your lower back between or during contractions.
- Heat – alternate using a warm shower or heat pack with TENS, but remove TENS before getting into water.
- Birth balls – combine TENS with gentle movement or rocking on a birth ball.
The benefit of having TENS is that you don't have to choose just one technique. You can start with TENS and movement, add breathing or massage, and introduce other strategies as your labour progresses.
Natural pain relief for labour: Aiming for a natural birth
How can I manage labour pain naturally without drugs?
How can I manage labour pain naturally without drugs?
Education and preparation can make a real difference. Understanding how labour works, knowing what to expect and practising breathing, relaxation and other labour techniques can help you feel confident and prepared. A practical, hands-on antenatal class can also be hugely beneficial.
Your body is designed to labour and birth, and contractions have a purpose — rather than fighting them, try to work with your contractions by breathing, relaxing your body, moving and finding positions that feel comfortable.
Health NZ recommends rhythmic breathing, massage, movement and other drug-free approaches such as TENS.
What is the best natural pain relief for labour?
What is the best natural pain relief for labour?
There isn't one technique that works best for everyone. Having several strategies gives you options as labour progresses.
Labour TENS can be one of those tools. It is non-invasive, self-controlled and can be used alongside breathing, movement, massage and relaxation techniques.
Some women combine TENS with hypnobirthing techniques or use a TENS until they are ready to enter the birth pool.
You can read the Birth Stories on our website to learn more.
How can I avoid an epidural during labour?
How can I avoid an epidural during labour?
If you’re hoping for a natural, low-intervention birth, preparation is one of your greatest tools. Understanding how labour works, learning to work with your contractions rather than fight them, and practising breathing, relaxation and movement can help you feel calm, confident and in control.
Speak with your midwife, sign up for a hands-on childbirth education class, enrol in a hypnobirthing class and empower yourself and your birth partner with information — movement and upright positions, massage and counter-pressure, heat or water, hypnobirthing, breathing and relaxation, continuous support from your birth partner, and Labour TENS can all make a difference.
And remember, avoiding an epidural or interventions shouldn't be a test you have to pass. A positive birth is about feeling informed, supported and respected, and having the flexibility to change your plans if you or your baby need additional care.
Labour TENS electrodes and commonly asked TENS questions
Do I need more than one set of electrodes?
Do I need more than one set of electrodes?
One set of electrodes is usually enough for labour, especially if your birth partner looks after them and you’re mainly using the TENS during labour.
An extra set is helpful if you plan to apply and remove the TENS multiple times, use it both before and after labour, or simply want peace of mind having a spare on hand.
Where do I place the TENS pads on my back?
Where do I place the TENS pads on my back?
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!
Can I reapply the TENS electrodes multiple times?
Can I reapply the TENS electrodes multiple times?
If you keep the sticky electrodes in good condition, and keep them stored on the plastic sheets provided, the electrodes can be reapplied up to 4-5 times.
If they lose their stickiness, dab a thin layer of water on the sticky side, allow to dry for a moment, then reapply.
An additional set of electrodes can be purchased separately.
Can the TENS electrodes cause skin irritation?
Can the TENS electrodes cause skin irritation?
If you have highly sensitive skin, prior to making a booking, purchase a set of electrodes and carry out a skin test.
It is very uncommon for people to react to the sticky electrodes, but very occasionally, it happens.
Seek medical advice if you have a skin reaction.
Does Labour TENS work for everyone?
Does Labour TENS work for everyone?
Following the instructions provided and best-practice tips gives you the best possible chance of getting the most from your Labour TENS.
Every woman and every labour is different. Some women find TENS particularly helpful in early labour, while others continue to benefit from it throughout their labour.
Labour TENS won't work the same way for everyone, and not every woman will experience the same level of benefit.
The Labour Lounge
Birth Stories
Real experiences. Honest moments.
Dive into birth stories from parents who used TENS during labour—what it felt like, what helped, and what they’d do again. Every journey is different, and these stories are here to inform, reassure, and inspire you.
Tens Talk
Everything you need to know, without the overwhelm.
From how TENS works in labour to tips, myths, and expert advice — this is your go-to space for understanding your options and feeling confident using TENS when it matters most.
Natural Birth Hub
Supporting you to feel calm, confident, and prepared.
A natural labour and birth can be an empowering and deeply personal experience. With the right preparation, support, and knowledge, you can approach labour feeling calm, confident, and connected to your body as you welcome your baby into the world.