Tens machine types and hire

[TryingToStayRational]

I’m considering hiring a tens machine for labour and just wondered if anyone had any advice about where to hire from and whether any particular type/brand is better than any other? I know nothing much about them really so any pointers appreciated. Thanks.

I'd ask your midwife - birth centres usually hire them out for about a tenner, which is cheaper than buying one.
I actually bought an Ella TENS which was great, but I honestly think they are all much of muchness! You just want one that has numerous settings, so you can gradually ramp up the power as labour progresses, and a boost button (to press during contractions). Whatever you get, make sure to opt for the big pads, they do different sizes and the big ones are the best for labour.

When I looked in to hiring one all the places that I found hired them out did so for £10 less than you could buy the cheaper ones, so in the end I bought one. I know people with various pains and have heavy periods so my OH pointed out it made sense to do so.

I actually brought a Boots one in the end. It actually seemed similar to a branded one that was about £5 more expensive.

Also get aware that some of those with smaller pads or come with only 2 pads state clearly they aren't to be used for labour.

You can get ones that time your contractions but if you have a birthing partner then you are giving away one of their jobs. Birthing partners generally feel useless anyway so it isn't a good idea to give away a job they can do.

Thanks, that’s really helpful

I hired a Lady Tens first time around, then bought one the second time as it wasn't that much more than hiring. I'm on my 5th pregnancy now so it's been more than worth it.

i had a baby 2 weeks ago and hired mine from here:

www.maternitytensmachine.co.uk/online-store/Hire-Elle-Tens-Machine-7-Weeks-Hire-FREE-Delivery-FREE-Return-Free-Practice-Electrodes-p96201640?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI8Ji80Yv_3AIVZ7vtCh3sBAkNEAAYASAAEgLy0fD_BwE

i’m not sure if you can buy one cheaper than that but to be honest i didn’t want to buy a tens machine.

i used it in labour and it was all very simple to use, easy etc and they provide an envelope with postage to post it back.

I got an Elle Tens, the purple one. I loved it. So much so I've kept it for next time. I wanted my own.
It was very good for me, I didn't even get near the highest settings as I didn't need to, but of course everyone is different.

I borrowed an Elle one from a friend in both my labours. It was amazing and she has lent it to various people, it has been involved in birthing 8 or 9 babies which I think is sweet! Very helpful piece of kit too.