What is pelvic floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor Physiotherapy is a specialized area of practice that assesses, diagnoses, and treats a variety of conditions involving the pelvic floor.

Additional training in the area of pelvic health is required to obtain advanced education and knowledge of pelvic floor related conditions, including the ability to evaluate the pelvic floor internally.

What does a pelvic floor physiotherapist treat?

Pelvic floor physiotherapists treat a variety of conditions including urinary and bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with sexual intercourse, urinary urgency and frequency, nocturia (waking at night to urinate), chronic pelvic pain, constipation, and much more. Though many women hesitate to seek help in this area, there is much to be gained from seeing a pelvic floor physiotherapist.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, nerves and connective tissue that form a ‘bowl’ like structure within the pelvis. They play a key role in urinary, bowel, and sexual function, and can greatly affect quality of life when they are not working properly.

What should I expect at my initial visit?

Your initial pelvic floor Physiotherapy appointment will involve a very thorough discussion around your presenting problem to fully understand your pelvic health history, concerns and needs. After much talking, you will receive an explanation of what the physical examination will look like. This may include an assessment of posture, breathing and movement patterns. Then, if you are comfortable and consent has been received, an internal examination of the pelvic floor will be performed. The purpose of this is to assess muscle tone, strength, pain, position of pelvic organs, and mobility. This will all help to form and implement a treatment plan specific to your needs.