10 Best TENS Machines for Labor Reviewed in 2024
Stacey Joseph
TENS machines that are best-known for relieving aches and pains of the muscles in all parts of the body can be beneficial for women in labor as well. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is used for problems of the cervical or lumbar spine and relieving joint pain. Because these incredible devices manipulate the messages from the areas in pain and the brain so well, they are helpful for the pains of labor in women giving birth. Some of these units also include electrical muscle stimulation (EMS), which is for stimulating the growth of muscles and preventing the atrophy of muscles. In this informative buying guide, we feature the best-rated and the most-reviewed TENS machines that manufacturers are currently offering online.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 35 hrs of research
Treat multiple areas at one time
Intensity is selected with a thumbwheel
Controls and buttons are easy to view and use
Works just like a TV remote control
Comes with a free online video series
10 Best TENS Machines for Labor Reviewed
1. truMedic Electronic Pulse Unit
Treat multiple areas at one time
Intensity is selected with a thumbwheel
Controls and buttons are easy to view and use
Works just like a TV remote control
Comes with a free online video series
Was large and bulky for some people
The overall quality was disappointing for a few buyers
With over 4,400 online customer reviews, the PL-009 TENS Electronic Pulse Unit has four electrode pads and is used for common muscle pains, aches, soreness, and stiffness. It will relax tight nerves and muscles and target certain areas in pain with the pads.
Read moreDesign
It includes the needed AAA batteries for operation and has independently-controlled channels for the right and left sides of the body. This terrific product will reduce stress and provide you with personal physical therapy anywhere and anytime.
Ease of Use
You can enhance joint mobility and treat multiple areas at one time. It can be used for more than one person at one time also. The controls and buttons are easy to view and use, as it works just like a TV remote control. The intensity is easily selected with a thumbwheel for mild, medium, or strong pains, and you get access to a free online video series with the purchase.
Value
The price for this terrific unit is below-average. It derives its value from an easy to use remote control, independent channels, simple to control thumbwheels for the intensity.
2. truMedic Model # TM-1000PRO
Includes four electrode pads
Improves the mobility of joints
Has an A/C adaptor and a USB wire
Includes knead, beat, or massage
Has all controls in a button form
Some people had issues with the A and B ports functioning well
Setting the unit up was troublesome for a few buyers
This wonderful TENS unit is very similar to the one listed above, except it does not contain the wheels on the sides of the device to choose the intensity level. This great product has all of the operation and controls on the push buttons on the front.
Read moreDesign
This 1000 Pro series TENS unit relieves soreness, aches, stiffness, and pains of muscles and includes four electrode pads. It improves the mobility of joints and aids nerve and muscle stimulation. This superb device comes with an A/C adaptor for charging and a USB wire. It includes pulse therapy and the options of knead, beat, or massage levels, plus relieves tension and pain anywhere and anytime you need comfort.
Ease of Use
It is easier to control this device for those that would not like the side controls that can be accidentally moved. Some of the TENS units do not come with a USB wire or a charger to add power to the battery. This one does come with both of these parts, so you can charge and use the device immediately.
Value
This is the highest-priced item on the list. It has the fantastic qualities of buttons to control all functions on the device, several modes of massage, and an included USB wire and A/C adaptor.
3. Famidoc Combo Units Dual Channel
Includes ten modes of massage
Has twenty levels of intensity
Will increase the strength of muscles
Is lightweight and portable
Used widely in clinics and hospitals
Wires did not hold up for some people after a few months
The pads may lose their adhesiveness after a few treatments
The Famidoc TENS and EMS Unit includes ten modes of massage and twenty levels of intensity. It stimulates the body’s nerves for therapy purposes, plus contracts and massages the muscles with electric impulses.
Read moreDesign
This company’s devices are widely used in clinics and hospitals all over the country because they work so well. they are also quite portable and easy to use, making them very versatile.
Ease of Use
Lightweight and portable, it will increase the strength of muscles. These two systems together can relieve fatigue and pain, increase immunity and quality of sleep, generate blood circulation, create an effect of anti-fatigue, and relax the tissues of muscles.
Value
With a below-average cost, this fabulous TENS mechanism has four large electrode pads, twenty levels of intensity, and ten modes of massage to service any body part well.
4. TechCare Massager 2 in 1 Dual
Enhances natural endorphins
Has nine preprogrammed modes of massage
Features twenty hours of continuous use
Can be used in multiple body areas
Includes an indicator for the battery life
Does not have a continuous massage setting
Overall quality was disappointing for a few buyers
The TechCare TENS Massager Unit is a natural reliever of pain because it enhances natural endorphins.
Read moreDesign
It has nine preprogrammed modes of massage including acupuncture, tapping, foot, deep tissue, combo, and cupping. Including an adjustable timer and a rechargeable battery, it features as many as twenty hours of continuous use and can be used in multiple body areas or by two people at once. This fantastic unit has dual A/B channels and has an indicator for the battery life. It comes with four electrode pads, wall charger and USB cable, a chart of treatment points, and a user’s manual.
Ease of Use
The dual A/B channels allow you to treat the left and right side of the body separately at the same time. You can choose different intensities and massage levels for both sides if you desire.
Value
The price for this terrific TENS unit is below the calculated average. It is valued for its dual A/B channels, nine massage modes, and several accessories that come with the unit.
5. HiDow AcuXP Micro
Lightweight and compact
Is perfect for travel with its small size
Dual-channel battery
Adjustable timer
Some users say that the device only lasted for nine months
The HiDow AcuXP Micro features eight modes all meant for relieving pain and it is designed especially for travel purposes and people that are always on the go.
Read moreDesign
The AcuXP-Micro has been used by athletes from major leagues so they can stay on top of their game, but you don't have to be an athlete to use this product. It works by distributing even blood flow to your body. This technology promotes relaxation and will help with improving your blood circulation and reviving your energy. It features a pocket-size design with a rechargeable battery and a timer and 8 different modes.
Ease of Use
The machine is designed for people that travel frequently. It is easily portable so you can take it anywhere you go because of its lightweight design. It comes with a user manual that is very easy to understand which makes this unit easy to use.
Value
You will get a few accessories with this product: electrode pads and wires, a travel charger, USB cable, pad holder and a user manual. This makes it a great deal for its price.
6. Belifu Dual Channel
24 Preprogrammed Massage Modes
Dust-Proof Drawstring Storage Bag
Fastening Cable Ties
Reusable Pads
Rechargeable Lithium Battery
One review said that the device was hard to use
This multi-functional tens machine from Belifu features twenty-four preprogrammed modes that you can choose from, all used for pain relief.
Read moreDesign
The unit has 24 preprogrammed modes and it comes with a few accessories to make your life even easier. You will get a storage bag so you can put the whole kit inside and take it with you while you're traveling. It also features a rechargeable battery and reusable pads. Another bonus are the fastening ties that you can use to tie all the cables to avoid a mess.
Ease of Use
The lightweight design of this unit together with the storage bag makes this product easy to transfer anywhere you want. It features 24 modes that are all easy to understand and use because of its user-friendly design.
Value
For a good price, you will get everything you need in only one product. Plus you will get a few accessories and a storage bag and cable ties so you don't have to worry about tangled cables anymore.
7. Domas Electronic
Portable
Easy to use
Includes 6 modes
Dual output
Some reviewers said that the pads don't stick well
The Domas Rechargeable Electronic Tens Unit is a portable and convenient pain reliever that you can easily take anywhere with you. It is also ideal for use all over your body.
Read moreDesign
The device features six preprogrammed modes together with twenty levels of pulse intensity that you can easily adjust. It has a simultaneous dual output design and it is perfectly safe for use at home.
Ease of Use
You don't have to worry about buying new batteries all the time, because the Domas comes with a built-in battery that you can recharge at any time. It has an easy to read backlit LCD display and a USB cable is included with the purchase.
Value
This is one of the cheapest products on our list. It doesn't come with a lot of accessories but it's a pretty good bargain.
8. Domas Muscle Stimulator
Eases pains and stimulates muscles
Enhances immunity and aids blood circulation
Has 24 massage modes and 20 pulsation levels
Has a rechargeable battery
Is highly portable and travel-friendly
Does not come with a manual to change settings
The screen goes blank for some buyers
This Rechargeable TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator eases pains and stimulates muscles as it enhances immunity and increases blood circulation. It can also improve the quality of sleep for a person with one of its twenty levels of adjustable pulsation.
Read moreDesign
There are 24 massage modes including scrapping, tapping, knocking, trigger point, kneading, acupuncture, butterfly, cupping, rubbing, and stepping. It is great for chronic pain, migraines, sciatica pain, labor pain, sports injuries, shoulder tension, inflamed discs, tendonitis, fibromyalgia, arthritic joints, and back pain.
Ease of Use
The compact size and rechargeable battery make this great mechanism quite travel-friendly. You can use it anywhere and anytime without it being detected by others around you.
Value
Having a below-average price, this wonderful TENS unit is valued for its many benefits for the body, the 24 modes of operation, and the twenty levels of pulsation that you can adjust.
9. TechCare Massager 10 Modes
Is a natural reliever of pain
Ten massage modes
Features twenty levels of strength intensity
Has a built-in battery and indicator of battery life
Is multi-functional and dual-channeled
The battery did not last the stated amount of time for a few people
Treatment was painful for some buyers
Offered in two colors, this tens unit eliminates the need for pain pills for common body aches and pains. It is a natural reliever of pain that provides low-voltage pulses that stimulate the nerve fibers, which ultimately stops the signal of pain to the brain.
Read moreDesign
By heightening natural endorphins, it contracts and relieves muscles. Such devices have been used by chiropractors for many years. This one has ten massage modes that are preprogrammed including cupping, combo, foot, deep tissue, acupuncture, and tapping. It has a timer that is adjustable and features twenty adjustable levels of strength intensity. On a full charge, it will operate up to twenty hours continuously, as it is multi-functional and dual-channeled. This superb product comes with a carrying bag, six electrode pads, two cables, a user’s manual, a wall and USB charger, a wire holder and electrode pad, and a chart of treatment points. It has a built-in battery and an indicator of battery life.
Ease of Use
With ten massage modes and twenty intensity levels, you will be able to find that perfect amount of relief for all of your painful and tired areas. Different body areas require a varying amount of attention and massage.
Value
With a below-average price, this wonderful device has ten modes, twenty intensity levels, low-voltage pulses, and comes with many accessories to aid in using the mechanism.
10. CUH Rechargeable 16 Modes
Has sixteen modes and eight reusable electrodes pads
Includes an adjustable timer and twenty intensity levels
Comes with a hard travel case and storage pouch
Can be used simultaneously on two people
Mode and intensity adjust separately
Does not come with a charger
Is not strong enough for some people
The CUH Rechargeable TENS Unit has sixteen modes and eight reusable premium electrodes pads. It includes an A/B channel that is independent and an LCD display that is backlit.
Read moreDesign
Ideal for muscle relief and pain management anytime and anywhere, it includes an adjustable timer and twenty adjustable intensity levels. This great product comes with a travel case for storage and easy carrying. The case is lightweight, dustproof, and shockproof because it is a hard case. A handy pouch is provided also. The device is compact and small and can be used simultaneously on two people. The 4-in-1 wire permits four pads to be used together in a wide area. The mode and intensity adjust separately for various body parts. When fully charged, it has a ten-hour run time and is rechargeable with a USB charger that is not included with the device.
Ease of Use
This is a portable unit that can provide you with the relief of pain and discomfort anywhere. It comes with a hard case and a pouch, so you can transport it safely wherever you go.
Value
The cost of this device is below-average. It has the great features of having sixteen various modes, a hard case for storing and transporting, and twenty intensity levels.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Design
We just feature the top-rated and most-reviewed products of any category of products in our helpful buying guides. This guarantees that we highlight only the top items that manufacturers are producing that customers have judged as excellent. They would purchase these same products again because they are so well satisfied. Our data-packed summary sections include all the details and data we could find in our extensive research of each item in a concise and easy-to-use form.
We use the valuable feedback from consumers and the manufacturers’ product details to give you all of the information needed to make the best intelligent decision in choosing which one of these products is best for you. The TENS machine with the highest number of reviews is the PL-009 TENS Electronic Pulse Unit with Four Electrode Pads, and the device with the highest rating is the Famidoc TENS and EMS Unit. All of the featured products are remarkable, but these are outstanding.
Ease of Use
Each of these wonderful products is lightweight and portable, making them ideal for travel and use when you are away from home. A couple of them even come with carrying cases for that purpose. They are compact and small, so they do not take up much room in bags or packs. The LCD screens and the simple push buttons make these devices easy to view and operate. Because these are so portable, pregnant mothers can bring such a device to the hospital with her to relieve the pains of labor and discomfort. All during the pregnancy, the tired aching muscles in the back, legs, and hips from the extra weight can be relieved with a TENS unit quickly and daily.
Value
To provide you an idea of the cost and value of each device, we calculate an average using the current prices of the items. This average is then compared to each cost and indicated as average, above-average, or below-average. Online prices change often, so to avoid giving you false information, we do this instead. The costs of these TENS machines are mostly similar except for two items that are priced much more than the others. because of this, the price range is widely skewed, resulting in no average-priced items.
The most expensive product is the TENS Electronic Pulse Unit and 4 Electrode Pads – 1000 Pro model. The least expensive is the TENS Unit LuxFit Premium Portable TENS Machine. Each item varies in its abilities and ease of use. Also, in the Cost and Value sections, you will find the best qualities and features of the product that makes up its value.
Design Ease of Use Value 
These machines operate on batteries that are either regular AAA or rechargeable lithium types. The rechargeable ones come with USB cables and chargers, so you can use the units right away when you receive them.
Even though these machines are small, their capabilities are many. The many selections of modes and intensity levels for these products are incredible. Most of them have dual functioning so that two parts of the body can be treated at the same time or two people can use the device at the same time.
Other Factors to Consider
Comfort
Almost any area of the body can be helped and relieved with these TENS devices. Wherever your muscles ache and pain, the functioning pads can be placed to give you a massage. The dual channels of many of these units allow two body section to be treated at the same time or two people to be helped at the same time. The two channels permit you to select different modes and intensity levels for those body parts.
Support
Aches and pains in almost any section of the body can be helped with a TENS unit. The various massage functions and modes along with the intensity level selections allow you to choose the perfect settings to aid your problem muscles. Chiropractors, hospitals, and clinics have been using similar devices for many years to help patients in their facilities. You can now have the luxury of helping your muscles yourself in the comfort of your own home.
Labor pains felt by women giving birth can be reduced with such devices as they affect the messages that are sent to the brain from the body areas that are experiencing the pain. Massaging these areas while in labor can be highly beneficial to the mother and reduce her pain immensely. We noticed in one manufacturer’s description of their product that these should not be used while pregnant. You may want to check with your doctor first before using one of these devices if you are pregnant.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Are all of these devices portable and operated on batteries?
Yes, each one is portable and operates on batteries. Some are bigger than the others, and the batteries differ. A few of these units run on regular batteries, while the others use rechargeable lithium batteries. They are all lightweight and easy to use while traveling and on-the-go.
q: What does TENS means and how do these mechanisms function?
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is used for problems of the cervical or lumbar spine and for relieving joint pains. It can relieve many muscle issues from various body aches and pains. When combined with EMS, it gives a better quality of massage and relief of symptoms.
q: Some of these have an EMS function as well. What does that mean and what does that do?
Electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) is for stimulating the growth of muscles and preventing the atrophy of muscles. It works in conjunction with the TENS function to give you an enhanced experience for your muscle therapy. A few of these listed devices have the EMS function also.
q: Do any of these products come with USB cables or chargers?
Yes, about half of the products we list here come with the USB cables and chargers for the lithium rechargeable batteries they have. The other units either do not include these accessories or they have regular batteries that cannot be recharged. A couple of them come with these regular batteries to get you started right away. The ones that have rechargeable batteries but do not include the charger or USB cable would most likely take a universal set of these accessories that can be purchased in most stores or online.
q: What is the main complaint of these TENS units from customers online?
The settings of these units seem to confuse some people. They find it hard to adjust the modes and intensity levels to get the perfect massage for themselves. We also saw some complaints about the units not being strong enough or too strong for some of the buyers. This is really an individual issue because not everyone has the same tolerance for this sort of stimulation and massage. A few people stated that there was not much difference in the intensity levels or modes of some of the devices. It will take some time to try out the various levels to see which ones work best for you.
q: What keeps the electrode pads attached to the body? Do they stick to the skin?
The electrodes pads stick to the skin with adhesive. It is a common complaint that the adhesive does not last long with some of the units. Others can be purchased when they wear out. One of the units comes with extra pads to help with this issue.
q: Can these TENS machines be used every day or are they best used just periodically to give the body a chance to be without it?
These are gentle stimulators and massagers that can be used daily for relief of muscle aches and pains. It should do no harm to use them as needed for your problem areas, even if you need it on a daily basis. Just as with anything else, moderation can be very beneficial, especially at first when you are just getting used to this type of therapy.
Sources
- , TENS: The 'Natural Labor' Tool No One Talks About, Online Article
- , Using a TENS machine in labour, Online Article
- , Tens Machine – Using A Tens Machine For Labour, Online Article
