How-to use
Your guide to setup, placement, and everyday use
Pain relief should feel simple. This page shows you how to set up Tap in ways that suit your body & symptoms.
Option 1: Singular Pad
This video covers the essentials — what comes in the box, how to charge your device, how to apply pads, and how to start your session.
A few extra tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your skin is clean and dry before placing pads
- Reapply the clear film to the pads after use to protect the adhesive
- The butterfly pad is a good all-rounder, especially for first-time users
- If you feel a stinging or pinching sensation, lower the intensity or reposition the pad
Note: If you prefer a step-by-step reference, you can download the full user manual below.
Electrodes are placed on the lower abdomen and connected to the tap device for targeted, gentle relief.
Option 2: Electrode Function
Exploring different electrode setup options
This video walks through the flexibility of tap.’s pad and electrode system. Depending on your symptoms and preferences, you can customise your setup using:
- A single main pad (butterfly, discreet, or XL)
- A main pad plus electrodes
- A single pad plus cord plus secondary pad
- Just electrodes with the hip clip for a more compact setup
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. tap. is designed to adapt, whether you’re at home, at work, or on the move. Don’t be afraid to test a few placements to find what gives you the best relief.
Electrodes are placed on the lower abdomen and connected to the tap device for targeted, gentle relief.
A note on the electrode function
- Take the electrode cord and snap double head end on to the two round electrode pads.
- Plug USB end of the cord into the port at the bottom of the tap device.
- Follow directions for unit control settings in Option 1 above.
Labour Usage
Tap can be used during early to mid labour to support comfort, reduce reliance on medication for some people, and give you a sense of control during contractions.
Often used in early to mid labour. Always discuss your birth preferences with your midwife or care team.
How to set up:
1. Choose one of our singular pads (butterfly or discreet) and click the Tap 2.0 device on to it. The singular pad is placed on the bra line/mid back area. You may like to purchase our XL Butterfly Back Pad for ease during labour- this is our largest pad.
2. Plug in the electrode cord and click both of the small electrode pads to the ends. This is placed on your lower back. Alternate option: you can click another singular pad (butterfly or discreet) into the electrode cord instead of the two small round electrodes).
3. Get your birthing partner to long press the power button to turn on and then press the + until you reach a setting that feels comfortable. During times of intense contractions you may ask your birthing partner to increase the TENS intensity by again pressing the + until you are happy. To reduce the intensity after contraction you can press the - or leave it at the new level.
Afterbirth: You may use your Tap 2.0 for pain relief from after-birth pains. Some people find it helps reduce the need for additional or prolonged use of pain relief. Your midwife or specialist may also know about utilising our 25mm round electrodes for scar management post cesarean.
Tips: You can choose to stay on Mode 1 (High Frequency) for simplicity. Move to Mode 2 (High Frequency Burst) after a few hours so your nerve pathways don't accommodate to the TENS treatment. Trialling Mode 3 (Low Frequency) is also an option, with Mode 4 as the burst mode to move to after a few hours. Try what feels right to you in early labour.
Note: Tap 2.0 will automatically shut off after 1 hour of use, you may switch it back on (Step 3) as many times as you need. It's a good opportunity to check in to see if a new position or tool if right for you as you progress.
Caution: You may wear your TENS for as long as needed, but always use as directed on your back and never use near water. You can trial placement before birth, however do not switch on the TENS treatment until you are in labour to avoid bringing on contractions.
Bladder/ Bowel usage (TTNS)
Please click this video from Fiona Rogers (BPthy GD ExSpSc, Physiotherapist) for example set up.
Source & credit: www.pelvicfloorexercise.com.au
