Pelvic Health Physiotherapy: What to Expect at Your First Visit

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on assessing and treating issues related to the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues in the pelvic region.

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement, such as workout attire or loose-fitting pants. Avoid wearing dresses or tight jeans.​

​There's typically no specific preparation required. If you have any relevant medical records or test results, you can bring them along.

A standard pelvic floor physiotherapy initial assessment are 1 hour and follow-up appointments are 30 minutes. 

The assessment will involve discussing your health history, symptoms, and concerns. This information helps them understand your background and potential contributing factors to your pelvic health concerns. The physiotherapist will work with you to develop goals for therapy and what you hope to achieve through pelvic health physiotherapy. This helps us tailor the treatment plan to your individual needs. A physical exam will be performed which includes but is not limited to: posture, movement scans, strength, flexibility and abdominal examination. Depending on your comfort level, an internal examination may be completed. This involves the physiotherapist inserting a gloved and lubricated finger into your vagina (for female patients) or rectum (for male or female patients) to assess the strength, tone, and flexibility of your pelvic floor muscles. This examination provides valuable information about muscle function and any areas of tension or weakness.

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​Remember that pelvic health physiotherapists are experienced professionals who prioritize your comfort and well-being. You're encouraged to ask questions, voice any concerns, and communicate openly with your physiotherapist throughout the assessment process.

Depending on your comfort level, you might discuss the option of rescheduling the appointment for a more suitable time. Alternatively, you can choose to proceed as planned, and your openness about your menstrual cycle will assist the physiotherapist in adapting the assessment techniques for your comfort. We will ensure that here is adequate sanitary protection if an internal examination is completed. Ultimately, your comfort and preferences take precedence, and we are well-equipped to accommodate your choices and create a respectful environment.

Pelvic health physiotherapy is covered by extended health benefits, it falls under your physiotherapy benefit. It is recommended that you contact your insurance provider to determine how much physiotherapy coverage you are entitled to, as this can vary between insurance companies. Unfortunately our clinic does not provide pelvic health physiotherapy under OHIP (there are a few located within the GTA).

The number of sessions varies based on your condition and progress. The physiotherapist will discuss a personalized treatment plan with you. We will typically have follow up visits every 2-4 weeks. Typical number of treatments varies between 6 to 12.