A guide to maximising your TENS hire during labour

Hey besties! You're on your way to one of the most beautiful journeys of your life - giving birth. You've probably taken all the necessary preparations, but have you thought about TENS for labour? I'm guessing you've thought a little about it since you're here...so let's jump in.

TENS, short for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, can be a real game-changer! But how can you get the most out of it?

Lets explore some top tips for you to rely on during your big day!

1. Be a TENS Pro Before D'Day

Preparing in advance is always important, and it's no different with your TENS unit. Familiarise yourself with all the buttons and settings beforehand. Oh, and make sure your birth partner is also well-versed in setting it up. Teamwork makes the dream work!

2. Early Bird Gets the Relief

Feel that first contraction? It's TENS time! The biggest mistake women make is waiting too long to apply their TENS. The sooner you start using it the earlier you will get those pain relieving endorphins flowing. Oh, and dont give up if you're not instantly relieved. Patience is key here. Stick with it for at least an hour to allow your body to adjust and let the TENS work its magic.

3. Embrace the Boost Button

Contractions intensifying? Hit that boost button! But, remember to press it again once the contraction eases, to switch back to baseline. Each time you turn that boost button on and off your TENS will time your contractions. No need to worry about tracking it on your phone.

4. Turn it Up!

As your labour progresses, don't shy away from increasing the intensity on your TENS unit. These handy little devices pack a punch, so make full use of them!

5. Sticky Situation? No Problem!

If you're hiring a TENS we give you new electrode pads so they will be super sticky and ready to go. BUT if your electrode pads start losing their stickiness just sprinkle a few drops of water onto the sticky side of the pads and reapply.

6. Shower Time vs TENS Time

TENS is pretty versatile and can be used with most other pain relief options. However, it is NOT besties with water. Make sure you remove your TENS before you hop into the shower or bath and you can put it back on afterwards.

7. Let TENS Take a Ride

Use your TENS for the car ride to the hospital. It might feel like you're losing control of your pain while strapped in a car seat, but your TENS is there to help you regain control and stay focused.

That's all for our top TENS tips, mama's!

Like what you've read? Follow us @birth_bestie for more guidance and don't forget to book your obstetric TENS hire for labour before you hit 36 weeks.

Remember to focus on the joy that this journey brings and know that your TENS unit will be there to help every step of the way!