FAQ's - Women's Health Physiotherapy

No.  Our Pelvic health Assessment and Treatment Service is available to Women only as I have undergone additional training and development in this area ( Men's Pelvic Health is currently not available).

All of our other therapy services such as Musculoskeletal aches and pains, post surgical rehab and Scar therapy are suitable for everyone.

I understand the sensitive nature of many of the conditions I treat, and pride myself in my ability to put patient’s at ease allowing them to talk about their concerns in an open way.  My clinic room is private and all information is kept as strictly confidential. 

Depending on what your concerns/problems are we are likely to assess your posture, pelvic alignment, stomach muscles, and how you perform certain exercises/activities e.g. squats, lying to sitting up . The assessment will be tailored to your needs.

If your problems are related to your pelvic floor, an internal examination is often advised to assess your pelvic floor function, this can be completed at the first appointment or at a subsequent appointment.  

During your initial assessment you have the opportunity to talk about your symptoms and the history behind them, along with any treatments you may have had already.

I will then ask you some more targeted questions in relation to this and review your medical history.

Depending on what your concerns/problems are we are likely to assess your posture, how you move, how well your joints and muscles are functioning and some specific tests such as how you perform certain exercises/activities e.g. squats, lying to sitting up . The assessment will be tailored to your needs.

Please see 'What to wear' question below.

There is more time for treatment on subsequent sessions, this allows us to build on treatment started in the initial assessment, this may include progression of exercises, adjustments to technique, hands on treatment to any scars, soft tissue release or further lifestyle changes.

It's also the perfect time to ask about symptoms that you may have forgotten ( or were feeling too embarrassed to mention at your for initial appointment).

Follow up appointments may occur weekly for some conditions others may be every  4-6 weeks where strength and conditioning is our focus.

An internal Vaginal examination can be very beneficial in identifying the cause of your symptoms, particularly if you are experiencing prolapse or continence issues. 

I will discuss what it involves and why it is advisable.  You do not have to have this examination, and you have the right to change your mind at any point.  

An internal examination by a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist is different to a smear test. There is no speculum involved and it is usually a lot more comfortable.

After a full assessment, I will discuss findings and a plan of treatment. You will usually be given some treatment/exercises at the end of this first appointment.  

In order to assess you properly, we need to be able to see the relevant body areas.

There is often an element of undressing required. 

It is usually best to bring, or wear, a pair of shorts and a vest top, or sports bra. Alternatively, wear suitable underwear.

Clothing needs to be comfortable and easy to move around in.

Pregnancy and child birth are not the only causes of  pelvic issues such as urinary leakage and prolapse.  Constipation, heavy lifting, chronic cough and genetics can all play a part.

You are never too old,  or too late for pelvic floor physiotherapy to make a difference in your life. Menopause can often emphasise old minor symptoms from pregnancy and childbirth and lead to the development of new ones. 

You can be assessed as early as 2 weeks post birth to discuss any concerns or symptoms you may have.  An internal examination of your pelvic floor can not be offered until 6-8 weeks after vaginal delivery and you have had a post natal check with your GP. However, there are many other treatments options and advice that can be implemented much earlier.

Your body undergoes amazing but significant changes during pregnancy and delivery. 

There is no instant fix, but there are quick wins to be gained alongside some aspects that may take a few months to achieve the improvements you are looking for.

The Mummy MOT® is a licensed brand of Postnatal Physiotherapy checks for mum's. Training courses are available for Physiotherapists, Midwives and Fitness Professionals and this allows the brand name to be used.  Having trained in antenatal and post natal rehabilitation, Incontinence,  prolapse and sexual dysfunction  I have built the same skill set over a number of years and am able to offer a complete Postnatal mummy wellbeing check and follow up treatment as needed. I however can not use the brand trade name.