can I use Boots pain relief TENS during labour?

[Amiable]

I'm about two weeks away from my due date with my first baby, and am keen on having as little pain as possible (surprise, surprise!). I've read loads about TENS machines for early labour, and was planning on using my Dad's Boots TENS Pain Relief Unit (he suffers back pain) as I figured why hire or buy another one. It's a 1998 model. Having read the instruction book thoroughly it only says cannot be used in first 12 weeks of pregnancy, and nothing about labour. However, the latest Pain Relief unit from Boots (on their website) says it cannot be used during labour. Help! Would it be dangerous to use the one I already have, or just not very effective? I've tried looking for any more info online, with no luck. Anyone have any idea?

[mears]

It won't be effective really. Obstetric TENS machines have 4 pads that are placed on your back in order to block the correct nerve channels for labour pain. You can hire them from Boots.

[AnnaK]

Or Nature's Gate, tehey were cheaper for the same product. Haven't got contact details but should be googleable. It was great!

[Nbg]

I was told not use Boots TENS for labour.

I hired one from a local chemist and it came in one day.

[Helen38]

One not intended for labour wouldn't have the boost function for contractions, which you need really.