Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you’re wondering about pelvic health physiotherapy but weren’t sure how to ask!
About Your First Appointment
What happens during a pelvic physiotherapy appointment?
Your first appointment begins with a detailed conversation about your health history and current concerns. Your physiotherapist will explain the examination process and answer any questions you have. The assessment typically includes evaluating your posture, movement patterns, and pelvic floor muscle function. With your consent, this may include an internal examination (vaginal and/or rectal) to assess muscle strength, coordination, and areas of tenderness. Based on findings, your therapist will discuss treatment options and develop a personalized plan to address your specific needs.
How should I prepare for my first appointment?
There’s no special preparation needed. Please make sure that you have completed your intake forms ahead of time so we can maximize your treatment time.
What should I wear for the appointment?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing is ideal. If you are agreeable to an internal evaluation, you will need to partially undress but we provide draping for your comfort and privacy.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No, a referral is not required to see a pelvic health physiotherapist. However, some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
What is your cancellation policy?
We reserve your appointment time exclusively for you! To help us serve everyone better:
- Cancel more than 24 hours ahead – no charge
- Cancel within 24 hours – 50% appointment fee applies
- Cancel within 3 hours or miss your appointment – full appointment fee applies
- Monday appointments: please reschedule by Friday at noon
- Appointments after holidays (e.g. Canada Day): reschedule 24 business hours in advance
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to seeing you!
Treatment Process
How long will I be in therapy?
Generally, the sooner you seek care for your pelvic health concern, the less time you will spend in therapy. However, this depends on the complexity of your condition(s)! With consistent work and treatment you can often see a positive change in the first 3 to 5 appointments and should be on your way between 8-12 appointments.
Is there homework between sessions?
Yes! We believe that you can make a lot of progress at home between visits. Some examples of homework include stretches, strengthening exercises or tracking things like bladder or bowel habits, fluid intake and diet.
Is pelvic health physiotherapy painful?
Treatment should not be painful, though you may experience some discomfort during the assessment of tender areas. Your comfort is our priority, and we work within your tolerance level. You are always in control and can pause or stop the assessment or treatment at any time.
Will I always need internal examinations?
Not necessarily. While internal assessment provides valuable information about your pelvic floor function, we offer many external assessment and treatment techniques as well. We always respect your comfort level and preferences, and will adapt your care plan accordingly.
Special Questions
Is pelvic health physiotherapy just for women?
No, people of all genders can benefit from pelvic health physiotherapy. We treat individuals across the lifespan with various pelvic health concerns, including urinary and bowel issues, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction.
Should I come when I am on my cycle?
Yes! In fact, it is often beneficial for your therapist to assess the effects of menstruation on the symptoms you are having. However, if you do not wish to have internal treatment, there are still many other aspects of care that can be completed externally.
I feel like I have a urinary tract or yeast infection. Should I still come to physiotherapy?
If you believe you have an infection, you should always see your physician. However, you can still come to physiotherapy. Many of our clients have pelvic pain conditions that mimic infections. If this is the case, you might even feel better after the appointment! If there is an active infection, we may choose to avoid internal treatment, but this gives us a chance to address external areas that could benefit from care.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, group benefit plans that include physiotherapy can be used for your appointment. We direct bill with some plans but if we are unable to work directly with your plan, we are happy to provide you with a detailed receipt that you can submit yourself. You will be able to fill out all that information on the intake form included in our welcome email.