When people first think of physiotherapy, they think about ankle sprains or back pain, but pelvic floor physiotherapy is a less widely known area. Pelvic floor issues can be quite overwhelming and can make your first appointment seem daunting, so here are five common questions you may be wondering when booking your first pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment.
- What questions will be asked?
Your first appointment will usually take an hour, and a large portion of that time will be spent asking about your history, concerns and on education.
Firstly, your physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, history, and goals to help guide an accurate diagnosis and the best treatment plan for you. These questions will cover details about your main pelvic floor symptoms, your medical, obstetric and gynaecological history, bladder and bowel habits, sexual function, exercise, and general health. Many of these questions can be quite personal and sensitive in nature. Please note that our physiotherapists and staff practice trauma-informed care, and you do not have to discuss anything you don’t feel comfortable with.
After going through your history, your physiotherapist will discuss pelvic anatomy with you, and describe what might be contributing to your symptoms.
- Which examinations will be performed?
After discussing your concerns and goals, it may be recommended that you undergo an internal pelvic assessment. This will allow us to check your pelvic floor muscles and structures, and to find out what exactly is causing your symptoms. An internal assessment will allow us to properly assess your pelvic muscles and structures that are not able to be checked externally. If you do not feel comfortable with this or would prefer to leave it until another session, please let us know and we can work around it. It is always up to you to determine what you feel comfortable with during your consultation.
- What kind of treatments might be suggested?
Your physiotherapist will then explain the findings, and together you will come up with a management plan going forward to work towards your goals. This will include timeframes, expectations, and what the treatment will involve. Treatments may include pelvic floor exercises, a bladder or bowel diary to fill out, changes to bladder and bowel habits, changes or modifications to your lifestyle or activities, or other exercises. Your physiotherapist may also recommend working with other practitioners such as a dietician or sexual therapist as needed to holistically address your concerns. Use this time to ask your physiotherapist all the questions you may have regarding treatment expectations and goals, as well as ways to measure your progress.
- Do I need a referral?
You do not need a referral to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist and can book an appointment directly. However, if you do have a referral from your GP, obstetrician, gynaecologist or other specialist, please bring it with you.
- What if I have my period?
If you have your period it is still possible for us to do an internal assessment if you are comfortable to do so. If you have your period and would prefer not to have an internal assessment, there are other aspects of your treatment we can address during your session. Alternatively you can reschedule your appointment to another time.
At Sunrise Pelvic Physiotherapy we are kind, empathetic, and passionate about working with you to help you achieve confidence and control over your pelvic health. We look forward to meeting you for your first appointment.
If you have any further questions or would like to book your initial appointment, please contact us.
