Carol Recommends - Boots TENS Machine

and it's on sale!

TENS Machines can provide some relief during the early stages of labour - we found it to be a great way to ease the pain in the early stages of labour so would recommend getting one if you think it may be for you but as always, please speak with your midwife or GP before purchasing a TENS machine to check whether it would be suitable for you. It's important to note that TENS machines can't be used if you suffer heart problems, have a heart pacemaker or suffer from epilepsy.

How the TENS machine for labour works is that it provides tiny electric shocks to the body which interfere with pain messages being sent to the brain - hence why they can offer some pain relief in the early stages of labour! This portable TENS Machine provides a level of pain relief

TENS machines generally attach to your back muscles by sticky patches which are then attached to the machine via thin wires - the pulses start off fairly light and you can increase them as you feel appropriate for you.

Boots TENS Machine £36.80 - Save £9.20 (Was £46.00) - is the one we would recommend the most as not only is it the most affordable on the market (it currently has £9 off!) but we found it to be so easy to use. The Boots TENS unit comes with 2 different modes to be used throughout labour with the boost mode for use during contractions. TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) works by preventing pain being passed into nerve fibres and by stimulating the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

How the Boots TENS unit works is 'at the onset of labour, apply the four pads to your back, as shown in the instruction leaflet. Switch the unit on. You will feel a pleasant pulsing sensation. This sensation will help to increase your production of endorphins. When experiencing a contraction, simply press the boost button for a surge of power to combat the pain. When the contraction ends, press the boost button again and the cycle will restart.' Batteries are included which makes the Boots TENS so much easier and so handy! We all know what it's like getting a new device that needs batteries only to realise you only have AA in a drawer somewhere and it needs AAA!

(The Boots Portable TENS Machine can also be used to help with period pains so can be used more than just in labour!)

It's also important to note that: TENS must not be used before the 37th week of pregnancy. If you are pregnant. do not place the electrodes over your abdomen. Do not use if you experience an allergic reaction to the electrodes. Do not place the electrodes on broken skin, varicose veins or recent scarring. Do not use whilst driving or operating heavy machinery. Do not use in the bath or shower. Keep out of reach of children.