Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

One in three women and one in eight men have a form of pelvic dysfunction that affects their quality of life. A weakened, or overactive pelvic floor can result in urinary leakage, constipation and painful intercourse. Sometimes pelvic floor issues emerge pre- or post-partum; but they can develop for other reasons as well. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can significantly reduce these symptoms, resulting in a much improved quality of life, and in some cases can help a patient avoid surgery.

What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

The term “pelvic floor” describes a group of muscles that support the pelvic organs (uterus, prostate, bladder, and rectum), and encompass the urethra, rectum, and vulva, and penis. These muscles span from the pubic bones to the tailbone, like a hammock. If these muscles are too tight, weakened, injured (or a combination of all the above), it can result in incontinence, or difficulty with bowel function, and/or sexual function.

What to Expect on Your First Appointment

Your first appointment will be 75-90 minutes long and have two components:

First, your therapist will take a comprehensive history of your current issue(s). She will ask questions about past injuries/traumas, bowel and bladder habits, diet, exercise, and your gynecological history where relevant.

This will be followed by a physical assessment of the structures in your pelvic floor as well as your lower quadrant (e.g. low back, hips). This is an external exam of the abdomen, thighs, and the vulva or penis. An internal exam may then be conducted of the vagina and the rectum, as needed. The internal exam focuses on assessing muscle tone, muscle strength, trigger points, and overall tissue health. A speculum is not typically used during the internal exam.

Our Promise to You

We will do all we can to make sure that you are comfortable with the care you are receiving. All appointments are conducted in a private treatment room with a female physiotherapist. All appointments are one-on-one. If you would like to have an additional person in the room, we would welcome that.

You will always have the right to refuse an internal exam or treatment at any time, whether during the initial assessment or a subsequent appointment. Other treatment and assessment options may still be available to you.

During your care, your therapist will build your understanding of the structures that are contributing to your symptoms and explain treatment options. She will create a personalized treatment plan and prescribe take home exercises to improve your recovery. Often manual therapy (hands on techniques used to decrease pain and improve tissue healing) will be used during the initial assessment and in the majority of your subsequent appointments.

Appointments

The initial assessment lasts 75–90 minutes.
Your subsequent appointments will last 60 minutes.

To book an appointment, please contact our clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Can I attend if I am on my period?

Yes, treatment can be provided during any stage of your cycle.

Can I bring my baby?

You’re welcome to bring your baby along.

Can I bring my partner or a support person to the appointment?

The goal of every treatment is for you to feel safe and comfortable. You’re welcome to bring someone along.

Do I have to have an internal vaginal and/or rectal exam?

It is always the patient’s decision as to whether you are comfortable with internal examination. If you are not comfortable, there are still many ways pelvic floor physiotherapy can improve your issues without internal pelvic floor work.

I just had a baby. When can I come in for treatment?

Patients who are in pain and need management may come in any time after the birth. If there are no immediate concerns, post-partum pelvic physiotherapy treatment usually begins 4-6 weeks after the birth.

I’m pregnant! When should I come in for treatment?

Pregnant patients requiring pelvic physiotherapy care can come at any stage of pregnancy. Typically, internal work is done between 14 and 35 weeks, depending on your issue. If a physician has placed a patient on pelvic rest, we will not do internal treatment.

Do you direct bill to my insurance company?

We are able to bill directly to most insurance companies, however it depends on the insurance plan design. We recommend that you confirm your payment options with your plan administrator prior to attending your first appointment.