What is Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy is a specialized branch focused on optimizing and restoring pelvic health throughout all stages of life, whether navigating the joys of pregnancy, embracing the nuances of postpartum recovery, or adapting to the changes of menopause. With tailored interventions and expert guidance, individuals can enhance core strength, manage pelvic changes, and foster overall well-being. Utilizing a range of techniques and tools including manual therapy techniques, hands-on feedback, and tailored exercises, physiotherapy offers non-invasive methods to alleviate symptoms and elevate pelvic health.

Common Conditions We Treat

• Bladder Problems
  • Stress urinary incontinence
  • Urge urinary incontinence
  • Overactive bladder: urinary urgency or frequency
  • Bladder pain syndrome (BPS)/Interstitial cystitis (IC)
• Pain Conditions
  • Penetrative pain (pain with tampon insertion or gynae exams)
  • Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Vulvar pain (vulvodynia, vaginismus)
  • Endometriosis
  • Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
  • Tailbone pain (coccydynia)
• Bowel Problems
  • Constipation
  • Fecal incontinence
  • Rectal pain
• Pregnancy and Delivery Concerns
  • Delivery preparation
  • Low back, hip, SI joint, pubic bone pain during pregnancy or after delivery
  • Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
  • Postpartum recovery
  • Scar tissue restrictions (c-section or vaginal delivery)
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse

What to Expect at the First Appointment

Pelvic physiotherapy offers a personalized roadmap to holistic well-being.

Our collaborative journey kicks off with a thorough initial assessment, diving deep into your unique story and needs.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can anticipate during your initial pelvic physiotherapy appointment:

• Duration:
  • Expect to spend about 1 hour with us during your first visit.
  • At Advanced Women’s Health, we prioritize quality time to understand your unique needs fully.
• Initial Paperwork & Questionnaires:
  • Begin with completing essential paperwork and questionnaires. These tools help us screen for potential pelvic floor dysfunction and gather vital background information.
• In-depth Discussion:
  • Your therapist will delve into your concerns, understanding your health history, and exploring your overall well-being. This comprehensive conversation ensures a holistic approach to your care.
• Physical Examination:
  • A holistic assessment often includes:
    • Posture Analysis: Observing how you stand, sit, and move.
    • Mobility Assessment: Evaluating your range of motion and movement patterns.
    • Lumbo-Pelvic Stability Check: Understanding the core and pelvic region’s strength and stability.
  • Based on the information gathered, an internal pelvic exam may be conducted. This exam aids in identifying specific pelvic floor impairments and guiding you on how to engage and control your pelvic muscles effectively.
• Tailored Treatment Plan:
  • Post-examination, your therapist will discuss a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
  • Together, you’ll set achievable goals and embark on your treatment journey. By the end of your session, you’ll have a clearer understanding of your pelvic health, equipped with exercises or tasks to practice at home.
• Comfort & Consent:
  • It’s essential to note that while a pelvic exam is a standard procedure, there are situations where it might not be appropriate. Whether due to the therapist’s judgment or individual comfort levels, the absence of an internal exam doesn’t diminish the benefits of pelvic health physiotherapy.
  • Our clinicians prioritize your comfort, ensuring that every session, regardless of its nature, is informative and beneficial.