How to Rent a TENS Machine for Labor

TENS (transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation) units are small portable devices that send an electric signal through the skin and into muscle. A TENS unit is about the size of a TV remote and has two sets of lead wires that attach to four soft adhesive pads that apply to the skin. A TENS unit decreases pain by stimulating the nerves with a competing sensation. It may be used during labor as a medication-free pain control measure. People using the devices for this single application may choose to rent rather than purchase them.

Things You'll Need

• Directory of durable medical equipment vendors
• Insurance benefits summary (if applicable)

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult your medical provider. Ask your medical practitioner to explain the use of the TENS unit and complete an assessment for contraindications.

• 2

  Contact your insurance carrier. If your carrier pays for rentals, ask for a list of preferred vendors and instructions for submitting a claim. Ask for an authorization number, if the insurance company uses one, and keep it in your records.

• 3

  Contact vendors. Contact preferred providers if your insurance carrier supplied a list. If you are paying privately for the rental, contact any vendor you choose. Find vendors in local business directories under the heading "durable medical equipment," or use the online search string "TENS Rental." Your physician or midwife may also rent devices or be able to direct you to local vendors.

• 4

  Review fees. If your insurance carrier is paying for the rental, establish who will be filing the claim. Some vendors will bill insurance carriers first if you provide the appropriate contact details and authorizations. Establish the cost for the time period of the rental. Ask how many sets of electrodes are included in the rental fee, and consider purchasing additional sets of electrodes to try the device before labor commences.

• 5

  Review delivery details. If you are using a local vendor, arrange pick-up and return of the device. If you are using a remote vendor, establish return procedures including shipping instructions and whether you need mailing insurance.

• 6

  Establish a rental period. Most vendors rent the device for a 30 day period, so rent the TENS unit for the month before and after the baby's due date. Ask the vendor about reimbursement if you return the device ahead of schedule.

• 7

  Practice using the device before going into labor. Bring the device to your next pre-natal appointment, and review the application and settings with your medical provider. Write instructions down, and pack the instructions and device in the bag to bring to the birthing location.