A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) machine works by sending gentle electrical pulses through electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pulses do two things:

• they block pain signals travelling to your brain
• they stimulate your body to release endorphins, your natural painkillers.

A TENS machine is completely drug-free, safe for you and baby, and can be used from the very first contraction. It’s one of the most recommended forms of pain relief by midwives because it keeps you mobile and in control from early labour.

Not sure which to choose?
Both the Perfect Mama Plus and Elle TENS Plus are medical-grade labour TENS machines that perform equally well. They are very similar in function, both offering a boost button, contraction timer, interval contraction timer, and preset programmes. The main difference is simply the brand. We recommend choosing whichever machine is available for your dates, and rest assured you’ll be in great hands either way. If you have any questions about either machine, our midwives Grace and Freya are always happy to help.

Perfect Mama Plus
The Perfect Mama Plus has been trusted by midwives for over 20 years. Known for its extra-large integrated electrode pads and simple intuitive controls, perfect for women who want effective relief without fuss.

• 4 x extra-large electrode pads
• 3 preset labour programmes
• 60 adjustable intensity levels
• Boost button for contractions
• Built-in contraction and interval timer
• Active Power Ramp for final stage labour
• Large backlit screen

The Perfect Mama Plus also has the added benefit of postpartum use including caesarean wound pain relief, afterbirth pains, and lactation support with specially designed breast electrodes (sold separately).

Elle TENS Plus
The Elle TENS Plus is an award-winning 3-in-1 machine featuring exclusive Opti-Max Technology which adjusts pulse depth as labour intensifies. A versatile choice that also supports general pain relief and pelvic floor recovery beyond birth (pelvic floor attachment sold separately).

• Opti-Max Technology for deeper pulse control
• Built-in contraction and interval timer
• Boost button for peak contractions
• 3 modes: Birth, General Pain & Pelvic Floor
• Pelvic floor recovery postpartum (attachment sold separately)
• Light-up backlit screen
• Compact and lightweight

When your machine arrives
Test it straight away. Familiarise yourself with the controls, read the instructions and do a practice run on your arm or leg so you feel completely confident with the settings and set-up before labour begins.

When to start
Start using your TENS machine in early labour, when you notice a regular pattern to your contractions. The earlier you begin, the more effective it becomes as your body adapts to the stimulation over time. Don’t wait until labour is intense.

Applying the pads
Place the four electrode pads on your back as shown in the instruction guide included with your hire: either side of your spine, two just below your bra line and two on your underwear line. Your support person can help, and it’s a great way to get them involved from the start. The electrode pads can be reapplied up to 30 times!

During contractions
Press the Boost button at the start of each contraction for extra relief. Release when the contraction ends.

As labour progresses
Gradually increase the intensity as contractions build. Trust your body and turn it up as you need to. There’s no wrong way to use it.

Important reminders

• Do not use in water. Remove before getting into a bath, shower or birth pool.
• Safe to use with other pain relief options like the gas, birth combs and heat packs.
• If you have any issues or questions please DM or email us directly.

Perfect Mama Plus: how to use video.
Elle TENS Plus: instructions included in your hire pack.

Choosing your hire period
We offer two hire periods: 4 weeks or 6 weeks. We recommend the 6 week hire to ensure you have it from 36-42 weeks. If you have a planned induction or know when you’ll be having babe, the 4 week hire might be right for you.

Start date
Select your machine, hire period and start date when you book. Your start date is when your machine will arrive. We aim to have it arrive on the day; if shipping delays mean it arrives late, your hire will start from the arrival date.

Shipping
We ship Australia-wide with tracked Australia Post. Allow 3-7 business days for delivery, and you’ll receive a tracking number as soon as your machine is dispatched. Express post is available at checkout. Indicative standard estimates:

• Brisbane: 1-2 business days
• Sydney: 2 business days
• Melbourne: 3 business days
• Perth: 5 business days
• Regional: 3-5 business days

What’s in your hire kit
Everything you’ll need to use the TENS in labour!

• TENS machine
• Electrode pads (can be reused up to 30 times)
• Lead cords
• Lanyard
• Batteries
• Instruction guide
• Prepaid return satchel

Returning your machine
A prepaid Australia Post return satchel is included in your hire kit, so you can post the machine back as soon as you are finished with it. Simply place the TENS machine and all cords back into the original packaging, seal it inside the prepaid satchel and lodge it at your nearest Australia Post by your return date at the latest. Please keep your lodgement receipt and tracking details until your return has been confirmed.

Hygiene
All TENS machines and cords are thoroughly cleaned and sanitised when returned. All electrode pads, lanyards and instruction guides are single-use and replaced fresh for every hire. Please wipe the machine with a damp cloth if it is visibly dirty before returning.

Questions?
Reach out via email or DM us on Instagram @thelasttrimester_aus. Grace and Freya x