FAQ

• What is a Labour TENS machine?
• Why use Labour TENS ?
• How does TENS work ?
• What does labour TENS feel like ?
• When do I start using the Labour TENS ?
• How long should labour TENS be used ?
• Can I practice with labour TENS ?
• When to use or not use TENS ?
• I would like a water birth - can I use Labour TENS ?
• Can I use a Labour TENS machine with other pain relief methods ?
• Can I use Labour TENS after the birth ?
• Can I use an ordinary TENS machine ?
• When is the best time to order ?
• What if I am due in less than 3 weeks ?
• Can I take the labour TENS machine into hospital with me ?
• What if my baby is late ?

What is a Labour TENS Machine?
The Labour TENS unit is an advanced, small, battery powered device which sends a pulsed electrical stimulus via pads to the skin.Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) stimulates the release of endorphins & uses the gate theory of pain relief as researched by "Melzack & Wall".TENS machines have been in use since the 1960's and over the years have become smaller, portable and easier to use.The Labour TENS machine is included in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (TGA)

Why use Labour TENS ?

• Drug free system for pain control
• Quick & effective pain relief
• Easy to use, light weight and portable
• Does not cause drowsiness
• Can be used for as long as pain relief required
• Normal / boost mode controllable using light weight seperate boost button
• Can be used at home when contractions start or later at hospital
• Can be used with other methods / prescribed drugs
• Non invasive giving freedom to move and walk about

How does a TENS unit work ?

• Releases natural pain killers (endorphins and encephalins)
• Blocks out pain messages traveling to the brain providing a virtual gate.
• Provides a sense of control over labour pain and gives an alternative focus

What does Labour TENS feel like ?

• A pleasant tingling sensation on the skin where the pads are placed.

When do I start using the Labour TENS machine?

• We recommend you start using Labour TENS ONLY at the onset of contractions in childbirth. Early use of Labour TENS promotes the bodies production of endorphins - the bodies natural pain killers.

How long should Labour TENS be used ?

• The TENS machine can be worn as needed for as long as desired but a minimum 30 minute duration is recommended for childbirth.

Can I practice with the Labour TENS machine?

• Yes, we recommend you try out the Labour TENS machine beforehand so that you are familiar with the operation when 37 week plus for a short duration of 1-5 minutes only. You may place the pads on your lower back as you would during labour or you may place them on the inside of your forearm to test. The electrode pads are self adhesive and re-usable. Re-apply the plastic film to the sticky side of the pads when finished and store in the plastic bag.

When to use or not use TENS?

• Labour TENS is specifically designed for childbirth. It has been tried, tested and in use since the 1960's. However there are a few precautions. Do not use over broken or desensitised skin. Do not use before 37 weeks unless approved by your doctor. Do not use if you have a pacemaker. Seek advice from doctor if you have epilepsy.

I would like a water birth - can I use still use a Labour TENS ?

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO: Do NOT use whilst in or near water. Use BEFORE ENTERING WATER ONLY during the first stage of labour which may take several hours. The midwife will not usually ask you to enter the water after you are 5cm dilated. You need to REMOVE the ELECTRODES and TENS machine BEFORE you enter the water.

How do I order the Labour TENS?

• Order the Labour TENS well in advance of your due date so we have time to post it out to you. Order online, or contact us if you have any issues with the process. Choose your hire start date (usually 3 weeks prior to your due date) and pay online to secure your TENS.

Can I use an general, pain TENS ordinary TENS machine ?

• It is not recommended as an ordinary TENS will be less effective and more complicated. Our Labour TENS machine uses larger pads and has two specially designed pre-set programmes with a boost button for changing between the two programmes.Ordinary pain management TENS cannot cope with the rapid shift in pain management needs as they are designed for consistent pain levels.

When is the best time to order ?

• Order in advance, as soon as possible to secure your Labour TENS machine for your due date. We recommend ordering at least 1-2 months ahead. If you are one month or less away from your due date choose express post and we will post it ASAP. It will be posted out to you to arrive by your nominated hire start date.

What if I am due in less than 4 weeks ?

• We recommend you use the Express Post service (guaranteed next day delivery for most metropolitan area's) . Choose postage carefully and if in doubt use express post, as once the TENS machine has been posted there are no refunds.

Can I take the Labour TENS unit into hospital with me ?

• Yes. The usually, midwives and doctors are usually very happy for women to use labour TENS machine. Check with your midwife or doctor if you are unsure. You may need to turn the labour TENS unit off temporarily whilst using electronic monitoring equipment.

What if my baby is late ?

• Please phone the office as soon as possible.