Are you considering visiting a women’s health physio for the first time? Here is what to expect on your initial appointment.
How long does the women’s health physio visit take?
An initial assessment usually takes up to an hour.
What will the first women’s health physio visit involve?
A detailed medical history will be taken to help us decide what the nature of your problem might be. An initial assessment might involve an internal examination (only with your consent) where your pelvic floor muscle tone, strength and endurance will be assessed. This is an important part of your examination and necessary in identifying the control of your pelvic floor muscles. Please, speak with your women`s health physio if you do not feel comfortable with this examination or if you would like to have somebody present with you. You are free to withdraw your consent. Please, note that I would not do internal examinations within a minimum of 6 weeks post-partum or post-surgery. Internal examinations can be done in the early and late stages of the menstrual period.
At the first visit, I might also examine your abdominal muscles, spine, hips and pelvis. Based on all the information gathered, a management plan will be discussed with you.
Is an internal examination essential?
A physiotherapy internal examination is used to assess the tone, endurance and strength of your pelvic floor, in addition to identifying any tender areas or trigger points that may be contributing to your problem. It is therefore very useful for the physiotherapist in building a full picture as to the cause of your problem. However, it is not essential and if you do not want to be examined I am happy to treat you without an internal examination.
How will my problem be treated?
Women’s health physio treatment options include:
- Teaching correct PFM activation and designing an individual exercise programme to address all the areas identified during the initial assessment (it might be poor strength, endurance or tightness)
- Bladder and bowel re-training program
- Manual therapy of the pelvic floor including connective tissue release and trigger point therapy
- Manual therapy of the pelvis and/or spine
- Prolapse management advice
- Postural re-education
- Dietary and lifestyle advice
- Biofeedback and electrotherapy, if necessary
Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a women’s health physio?
Referral from a medical practitioner is not essential. I believe in multidisciplinary approach, therefore I will communicate with your General Practitioner, Obstetrician/Gynecologist, surgeon or other medical health-care provider throughout your treatment as required.
You can book an appointment here
