If you are not quite sure what to expect from your first pelvic floor physio appointment – you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel a bit nervous before you come in. You may have been referred by your doctor, or a friend may have told you about us. You may have found us on social media. Perhaps you had never heard of a pelvic health physiotherapist until now.
We know it can be quite difficult to talk about some of these personal issues, however we are all highly skilled and all staff are trained to help you feel at ease. We realise that many of our patients may have experienced trauma. We’re very happy for you to tell us how we can help make you feel more comfortable talking to us.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect. From the first conversation with your physiotherapist, to how assessments are carried out, and what kind of treatment may follow.
What Happens at a Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Session?
Your first pelvic floor physio appointment usually follows three main steps:
Discussion & History Taking
Your first pelvic physio appointment at our clinic here in Wellington starts with a discussion about what your concerns are and the impact this is having on you. We will discuss your health history, including bladder and bowel health, sexual function and pain – to ensure we get the full picture
There may be things we can help with that you didn’t think to mention. When people first come in they often don’t know much about the range of services we provide, and what we can do to help.
Physical Assessment
Once we have finished our questioning and discussion we use diagrams and models to help educate you about what we think is happening. We also explain how we would do a physical assessment. This may include a vaginal or rectal exam.
We get a lot of information by doing an internal examination however it is not necessary if you decide you are not comfortable to have one. You may want to do that at another appointment or you may not want to have one at all. It is your choice. Your physiotherapist will be happy to discuss this with you. You’re also very welcome to talk to one of us before you make an appointment if you’d like further information.
If you do decide you would like a pelvic floor exam, we will be able to:
🔸See if you can contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles and check tone, strength, endurance and control
🔸Check for any tightness or pain
🔸Find out if there is any damage e.g. from childbirth
🔸Identify prolapse
Treatment Planning
Once we have made a diagnosis, we will provide a treatment programme tailored specifically to your needs.
This may include:
🔸Pelvic floor exercises
🔸Lifestyle advice and modifications to exercise and daily routines to reduce stress on the pelvic floor
🔸Information on appropriate physical exercise and activity
🔸Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles or improve function
We have a range of biofeedback, TENS and electrical stimulation equipment available for use if required.
How Many Pelvic Physio Sessions Will I Need?
One of the most common questions after a first pelvic floor physio appointment is: “How many sessions will I need before I feel better?” The answer is that it varies. However, we find that most people are significantly improved after 2-4 sessions. These sessions may be spread out over a few months.
At our clinic here in Wellington, we will reassess your progress each visit and progress your treatment accordingly.
Do I Need a Referral for Pelvic Health Physio?
In New Zealand, the answer is no – you can call or email us and book directly with one of our pelvic health physiotherapists.
Direct access: Physiotherapists are first-contact practitioners
ACC coverage: We are ACC registered – you may be able to get funding towards treatment for birth-related injuries or trauma. Your physio can help you with filling out the forms
Medical Insurance: We are able to provide you with a receipt that insurance companies will accept. If you have physiotherapy cover you can send this in for reimbursement
What Conditions Can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Help?
At your first pelvic health physio appointment, your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms and decide how best to help. Common issues treated include:
Bladder and bowel problems
🔸leakage or incontinence
🔸urgency and frequency / rushing to the toilet
🔸difficulty emptying / constipation and straining
🔸pain
Pelvic organ prolapse
🔸heaviness bulging, or pressure in the pelvis
Pregnancy and Postnatal recovery
🔸back, pelvic and wrist pain
🔸abdominal separation
🔸core strengthening
🔸support after vaginal or caesarean birth
🔸rehab from birth injuries – perineal tears, or trauma
🔸safe return to exercise
Pelvic and sexual pain
🔸painful sex
🔸vaginismus, vulvodynia
🔸chronic pelvic pain
Men’s pelvic health
🔸post-prostate surgery incontinence, erectile dysfunction
🔸pelvic pain
Pre- and post-surgery rehab
🔸preparing for or recovering from gynaecological or urological surgery
Our aim is to get you back to doing what you want to do!
Taking the First Step Toward Better Pelvic Health
Your first pelvic floor physio appointment helps us understand your concerns. We can answer your questions and create a plan with you for your treatment. People leave their first session feeling reassured and motivated, with a clear plan for improvement.
Our experienced team provides pelvic floor physiotherapy in Wellington for people of all ages and stages of life. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward better pelvic health. Click here
Further Information
You can see our helpful advice section here for information on parking, what to wear, what happens if you have your period etc
For advice on ACC funding to help with maternal birth injuries, click here – we can help you fill out the necessary forms when you come in.