Labour TENS Machine Advice and Guides | Elle TENS

Should You Use A Birth Comb Or A TENS Machine For Labour?

Should You Use A Birth Comb Or A TENS Machine For Labour?

Posted by Lisa Akins on 17th Sep 2026

Two of the most common drug free options for coping with labour pain couldn't look more different. One is a small battery powered device with pads that stick to your lower back. The other is a piece of wood you grip in your fist. Both turn up in hospital bags and birth plans across the UK, and both come with genuine reasons behind them. Here's what each one actually does, and what the research says about whether it works. How a TENS machine works during labour An Elle TENS machine sends a low le … read more
Natural pain relief options for labour

Natural pain relief options for labour

Posted by Lisa Akins on 1st Sep 2026

Labour pain is not something you have to face with drugs as your only option. Many women reach for drug free methods first, sometimes on their own, sometimes alongside gas and air or an epidural later on. None of these promise a pain free birth. Used well, they can take the edge off and help you feel more in control when contractions occur. How a TENS machine can help A TENS machine is a hand held, battery operated device that sends mild electrical pulses through sticky pads placed on your back. … read more
Renting Vs Buying A Labour TENS Machine

Renting Vs Buying A Labour TENS Machine

Posted by Lisa Akins on 21st Aug 2026

Elle TENS machines, made by Babycare TENS, are available to buy or hire, so neither option is the "proper" way to do it, they're simply suited to different situations. Hiring can be a more affordable option if you only need a machine for one labour and like the idea of having it for a limited amount of time. Buying means you can keep your machine and use it beyond your birth, whether that’s for a future labour, or general pain relief after labour such as breastfeeding pain or period pain. … read more
Thinking of Buying a Second-Hand Elle TENS? Read This First

Thinking of Buying a Second-Hand Elle TENS? Read This First

Posted by Lisa Akins on 10th Aug 2026

Preparing for the arrival of your baby comes with plenty of decisions, and it is completely understandable to look for ways to save money wherever you can. With second hand Elle TENS machines regularly appearing on online marketplaces, many expectant mums wonder whether buying pre-owned is a good option. As the manufacturer of Elle TENS, we are often asked this question. Our answer is simple: a second hand Elle TENS machine may be suitable, provided you know what to look for. This guide explains … read more
Where To Place TENS Pads For Labour Pain Relief

Where To Place TENS Pads For Labour Pain Relief

Posted by Lisa Akins on 31st Jul 2026

Getting the pad placement right is what makes a TENS machine actually work. Put the pads in the wrong spot and you'll feel the buzz, but you won't get the pain relief. Here's where they go, and why it matters. Why placement matters A TENS machine works by targeting specific nerve pathways that carry pain signals from the uterus and cervix to the brain. Those pathways run through particular points on your lower back. Midwives suggest practising the placement before labour starts, rather than work … read more