Hand holding Obi TENS and ELLE TENS machines for labor. Babycare TENS.

Elle TENS vs Obi TENS: Which Labour TENS Is Best for You?

Understanding Your Options

If you’re planning a natural, physiological or drug-free birth, a TENS machine is one of the simplest and most effective tools to help you stay comfortable and in control. I hire out two models, the Elle TENS and the Obi TENS, and both are reliable, labour-friendly units used across Australia.

Neither model includes a contraction timer, which is a positive thing. Timing contractions can pull you out of your body and into clock-watching. Labour isn’t linear and progress can’t be predicted by numbers. A timer-free unit helps you stay instinct-led and present.

This guide will help you choose the model that suits you best.

Elle TENS vs Obi TENS: The Key Differences

Why Neither Has a Contraction Timer (and Why That Matters)

Both models don’t including contraction timers. This is a positive design choice because:

timing contractions encourages comparison and expectation
it can create pressure or worry when things look “irregular”
labour progress is not dictated by contraction spacing
women labour more instinctively when they’re not clock-watching

A timer-free TENS encourages you to feel your labour, not measure it.

What Pairs Well With a TENS Machine?

If you are planning an active or physiological labour, these tools work beautifully alongside your TENS:

Birth Sling – supports upright labour, hip mobility and comfort
White Birth Pool – ideal for water immersion once active labour builds

Using a combination of upright movement, water and TENS can significantly improve comfort and reduce the need for medical pain relief.

Hire a TENS Machine in Rockingham, Baldivis and Mandurah

You can hire either model directly here:

Hiring is more practical than buying. Labour is a short window and you only need the machine for a few weeks. Hiring also includes fresh pads, new batteries and support if you need it.