TENS machine practise electrodes hurt when I test them? Any advice?

[MilkywaysAndBump]

I just received my elle TENS machine through the post and tried out the practise electrodes. I am pretty sure that I am sticking them on the right area (just above the dimpes above my buttocks), and along with the pulsating, I am feeling a tingling sensation that hurts. It feels like a static electric shock on the skin. I tried them higher up aswell to see if it makes a difference, but the pain is still the same. Is this how it's supposed to feel? I can't see how this additional pain will help when I'm having my contractions?

Am I doing something wrong, or is TENS not for me?

I vaguely remember them hurting, but they also helped immensly with the contractions. I think one pain cancels out the other, though I could be talking nonsense.

Not sure... I didn't think I was allowed to try them on my back till I'm in labour or maybe it's just before 37 weeks.

We've have tried them out extensively on DP he thinks it's great fun to see how much he can take ie pump it up to the highest setting. He also says it's done wonders for his back!

I think everyone is different with TENS. Maybe it won't hurt once you're in labour as your nerves will be doing something else, it may be a relief. On the other hand it could feel worse and you may end up throwing it at the wall. My NCT coach said it's generally half and half.

I hope it does work for you though.

You aren't doing anything wrong, that is what it is supposed to feel like at first- it takes a while to get used to it. When you are actually in pain, as opposed to just having a go, it will not feel the same.