TENS Unit for Labor: How It Works & How to Get One Free

TENS Units for Labor: A Drug-Free Way to Manage Pain

‍

Pregnancy and birth come with all kinds of sensations—some empowering, some downright intense. If you’re hoping to manage labor pain naturally or stay comfortable at home before heading to the hospital, a TENS unit might be your new best friend.

Even better? It’s included in the Mommy Care Kit, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket. 🎉

Let’s break down why so many moms swear by TENS for labor pain relief and how you can get yours for free!

‍

What Is a TENS Unit & How Does It Work?

‍

A TENS unit (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is a small, handheld device that sends gentle electrical pulses to your lower back through adhesive pads.

‍

How it helps during labor

‍
✔ Distracts from pain: The electrical pulses “override” contraction pain signals.
✔ Boosts endorphins: Encourages your body’s natural pain relief system.
✔ Puts you in control: You can adjust the intensity as contractions progress.

It’s completely drug-free, non-invasive, and safe—which is why many parents use it for early labor at home or as part of an unmedicated birth plan.

‍

How Moms Use a TENS Unit for Labor

‍

💡 Laboring at Home Before the Hospital

‍
Many parents use a TENS unit to stay comfortable at home longer before heading to the hospital or birth center. It’s a great way to manage early contractions without jumping straight to medical interventions.

‍

💡 Unmedicated & Low-Intervention Births

‍
If you’re hoping to avoid or delay an epidural, a TENS unit can help you manage contractions naturally. Many midwives and doulas recommend it for home births or birth center deliveries.

‍

💡 Postpartum Recovery

‍
Even after birth, a TENS unit can provide relief! Some parents use it to ease postpartum cramping, especially after a second or third baby when cramps tend to be stronger.

‍

How to Use a TENS Unit in Labor

‍

✔ Start in early labor—best when contractions are still mild.
✔ Attach electrode pads to your lower back (following instructions).
✔ Turn it on and adjust the intensity to your comfort level.
✔ Use the boost button during contractions for extra relief.
✔ Combine with other pain relief methods like breathing techniques or movement.

‍

🚨 When NOT to use a TENS unit

‍

• ‍‍If you have a pacemaker or heart condition
• ‍In water (not safe for use in a birth tub or shower)
• If your provider advises against it

‍

Other Times You Can Use a TENS Unit During Pregnancy & Postpartum

‍

🤰 Lower Back Pain in Pregnancy

‍

• As your belly grows, your lower back takes on extra strain. A TENS unit can help relieve pregnancy-related back pain without medication.
• Use it on a low setting and place the electrode pads on either side of your lower spine.

‍

🦠 Sciatica Relief

‍

• The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back down your legs, and pregnancy can put pressure on it, causing sharp pain.
• A TENS unit can help relax the muscles around the nerve, easing sciatic pain.

‍

🤱 Postpartum Recovery & Afterbirth Contractions

‍

• After birth, your uterus contracts back to its pre-pregnancy size—this can be especially intense after a second or third baby.
• Some parents find that using a TENS unit on their lower abdomen or lower back helps with postpartum cramping.

‍

💪 Shoulder & Neck Tension from Breastfeeding

‍

• Holding a newborn for long periods (especially while nursing) can lead to shoulder, neck, and upper back pain.
• A TENS unit can help loosen up tight muscles and reduce soreness.

‍

💡 Important: Always check with your provider before using a TENS unit in pregnancy—especially before 37 weeks—to make sure it’s safe for your specific situation.

‍

How to Choose the Best TENS Unit for Labor

‍

Not all TENS units are designed for labor, so choosing the right one makes a big difference in how effective it is. Here’s what to look for:

‍

Labor-Specific Features

‍

Many TENS units are designed for general pain relief, but a labor-specific TENS unit includes:
✅ A boost button – lets you increase intensity instantly during contractions
✅ Preset programs for labor – so you don’t have to adjust settings manually
✅ Easy-to-use controls – because no one wants to fumble with tiny buttons mid-contraction

‍

Adjustable Intensity Levels

‍

Labor pain changes as contractions progress, so you’ll want a TENS unit with multiple intensity settings. This lets you start with gentle stimulation and gradually increase as needed.

Wireless vs. Wired

‍

• Wired TENS units are the most common and often more affordable.
• Wireless models offer more freedom to move, but they may be pricier.

‍

Battery Life & Portability

‍

Labor can last for hours, so choose a TENS unit with long battery life (or one that allows you to swap batteries easily). A compact, lightweight design is also great for keeping in your hospital bag.

‍

Where to Get a TENS Unit for Labor

‍

✅ Included in the Mommy Care Kit! This labor-specific TENS unit comes with everything you need, including a boost button, adjustable settings, and reusable electrode pads—so you’re ready when contractions start. 🎉

‍

💡 Not eligible for the Mommy Care Kit? You can still get a labor TENS unit! Many parents choose to:

• Rent a labor TENS unit from a birth center, doula, or medical supply store.
• Buy one online—just make sure it has a boost button and adjustable intensity levels for labor use. Popular brands include Elle TENS, Babycare TENS, and OBI TENS.

‍

💡 Pro Tip: Try your TENS unit before labor starts so you’re comfortable using it when the time comes!

‍

How to Get a TENS Unit for Free (Yes, Really!)

‍

The Mommy Care Kit includes a labor-specific TENS unit, so you don’t have to stress about getting one last minute.

‍

How to Claim Your Free TENS Unit

‍

1️⃣ Check if you qualify by visiting Mommy Care Kit.
2️⃣ Submit your insurance info—it only takes a few minutes!
3️⃣ Get your TENS unit shipped straight to your door.

Hundreds of moms have already taken advantage of this—don't miss out!

‍

{{trendingoffer}}

‍

FAQs About Using a TENS Unit for Labor

‍

💡 When should I start using a TENS unit in labor?

‍

You can start using a TENS unit in early labor, as soon as contractions begin. It’s most effective before active labor kicks in.

‍

💡 Can I use a TENS unit if I plan to get an epidural?

‍

Yes! Many parents use a TENS unit before getting an epidural to help manage early contractions. Just remove it before the epidural is placed.

‍

💡 Where do I place the TENS unit pads during labor?

‍

The electrode pads should be placed on your lower back, just above the sacrum (not directly on the spine). Follow the instructions in your Mommy Care Kit for exact placement.

‍

📖 References for Further Reading

‍

• Cochrane Review. TENS for Pain Management in Labor
• Mayo Clinic. What to Expect in Early Labor

‍

Small Device, Big Relief!

‍

Labor is one of the biggest physical events of your life—having the right tools makes all the difference. Whether you’re planning a home birth, hospital birth, or just want to manage early labor naturally, a TENS unit can help you feel more in control.

‍

💛 Don’t wait—check if you qualify for a free TENS unit today! 👉 Mommy Care Kit

‍

Shop This Article

‍

{{cluster}}

‍

‍

{{subscribe}}

‍