TENS Units for Labor: A Natural Pain Relief Option You’ll Want in Your Birth Plan
If you're preparing for birth and looking for natural ways to manage labor pain, you're probably already exploring positions, breathing techniques, and maybe even water therapy. But there’s another powerful tool that often gets overlooked: the TENS unit.
Used widely in the UK and gaining popularity in the U.S., TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units are a safe, drug-free way to manage contractions, especially in early and active labor. At Your Family Doula Services, I not only teach clients how to use them, but I also offer labor-specific TENS unit rentals so families can feel empowered and prepared when labor begins.
What Is a TENS Unit and How Does It Work?
A TENS unit is a small handheld device that connects to electrode pads placed on your lower back. These pads send gentle electrical pulses through the skin, which may:
Interrupt pain signals from reaching the brain
Stimulate endorphin production, which are your body’s natural pain relievers
Provide a counter-sensation that helps your brain focus on something other than contractions
While TENS units are commonly used in physical therapy, the units we use are designed specifically for labor. This means they include special features like a “boost” button for contractions, adjustable pulse settings, and easy clip-on access for use during active labor.
Benefits of Using a TENS Unit During Labor
One of the most common things I hear from clients is:
“Why didn’t I know about this sooner?”
Here’s why so many birthing people fall in love with TENS during labor:
Drug-Free Pain Relief
Offers an all-natural option for those who want to avoid or delay medical pain relief.Puts You in Control
You adjust the intensity based on your comfort, and you can use the “boost” button during each contraction for extra relief.Especially Effective in Early Labor
While you’re still at home, waiting for active labor to intensify, the TENS unit can take the edge off.Keeps You Mobile
Unlike an epidural, you can walk, sway, and change positions with ease.Non-Invasive & Safe
No needles, no medication, and minimal risks when used correctly.
How to Use a TENS Unit for Labor
You’ll place the electrode pads on your lower back, where many people feel contractions most intensely. From there, you:
Turn on the device to start the electrical pulses.
Use the dial or buttons to adjust the intensity as needed.
Use the “boost” button during contractions, then return to baseline between them.
Keep it running continuously (it works best when not turned on/off during use).
Don’t worry—I walk all my clients through how to use it and provide clear instructions when you rent from me.
Is a TENS Unit safe? Are there any risks?
TENS units are considered very safe for use in labor. That said, there are a few guidelines:
Don’t use near water (you’ll remove it before getting into a bath or shower).
Avoid placing pads over broken skin or near your belly.
Avoid use if you are allergic to adhesives.
Not recommended for people with certain medical devices like pacemakers (always check with your provider).
Start using it during early labor, not once contractions are overwhelmingly intense (this helps maximize its effectiveness).
Labor TENS Units vs. Regular TENS Units
This is important! Not all TENS units are created equal.
The ones I offer for rental or include with my birth clients are labor-specific models, designed to meet the unique needs of childbirth. These units include:
A contraction “boost” button
Pre-set programs designed for labor patterns
Larger pads for more effective coverage on the lower back
Easy, one-handed operation
Custom pulse settings designed for labor waves
Using a standard physical therapy TENS unit may not give you the same results or ease of use during labor.
Where to Get a Labor TENS Unit
I offer labor TENS unit rentals to families looking to add this powerful tool to their birth plan. Rentals include:
A high-quality labor-specific TENS unit
Fresh electrode pads
Easy instructions
Optional video call to discuss use
Text or email support if you have any questions
➡️ Click here to learn more about our TENS unit rentals
If you're a birth client of mine, TENS unit use is included at no extra cost– yes, really!
A Small Device That Makes a Big Difference
The TENS unit might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of labor support—but for many families, it becomes an essential part of their experience. Whether you're planning an unmedicated birth, want to stay home longer before heading to the hospital, or just want extra tools in your birth toolkit, a labor-specific TENS unit is a low-risk, high-benefit option to consider.
Have questions about how it works? Want to add one to your birth plan or book a rental?
Let’s connect—I’m happy to walk you through everything and help you feel 100% confident before the big day.
Have you used a TENS unit during labor? I’d love to hear how it worked for you! Drop a comment below and share your experience—it may help someone else who’s curious about trying it, too.
