TENS Machine

tens MACHINE Hire

TENS Machine - a drug free, natural method of pain control.

What is TENS?

TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a safe, non-invasive, drug-free method of pain control that can be used in labour. The NeuroTrac Obstetric TENS machine available for hire at Birth and Beyond is an advanced and modern digital dual channel TENS unit featuring a dedicated labour pain program.  It is an excellent machine that is reliable and easy to use by the patient.

The NeuroTrac Obstetric TENS is dedicated to treating labour pain and is not recommended to be used for any other purpose. This unit should only be used during labour and not in water.

What is included?

The NeuroTrac Tens Machine comes complete with: 9V battery, 1 packet of 4 - 100mm x 50mm skin electrodes, 2 lead wires, operating manual and carry case.
How does TENS work?
The TENS unit consist of a small battery powered stimulator and four electrodes that are placed on your back. The TENS produces tiny electrical impulses that are felt as a tingling or massage sensations

TENS works in two ways:
- Increases your body's production of its own natural pain killers, called endorphins.
- The electrical impulses stimulate nerve fibres under the skin. The stimulation of these nerves blocks pain messages to the brain. The brain then registers the TENS sensations, rather than pain.
Benefits of TENS in labour
TENS is a drug free, natural method of pain control.
- Can be used at home, they are highly recommended for home birth
- TENS can be used on its own or in conjunction with some other form of pain relief.
- It's non-invasive and therefore allows freedom of movement including walking around.
- No side effects and completely safe for mum and baby.
- Easy to operate and fully controlled by mum.
- Focuses your attention and provides you with a sense of control in managing your labour pains.
When to use TENS

TENS is more effective if used right from when labour begins. For more effective pain relief, TENS needs to be used with other coping strategies, such as relaxation, breathing control and positions in labour.
Are there any precautions?
DO NOT use TENS:
- Prior to the 37th week of pregnancy, unless advised by your physiotherapist.
- On the abdomen during pregnancy.
- If you are driving.
- In the shower or bath or birthing pool.
- If you have a cardiac pacemaker.
- If you have ever had a heart rhythm problem.
- If you have epilepsy.
DO NOT place electrodes over broken skin. Turn the TENS unit off before removing electrodes. Consult your doctor for advice and any question you might have regarding using a TENS machine during your labour.