Embarking on your journey to pelvic health is a courageous step toward a happier, healthier you! It can also be really intimidating to seek care for pelvic floor issues. In this article, you will read about exactly what to expect during your pelvic floor evaluation to ensure you have a safe, comfortable, and empowering experience. (You can also listen as I explain the process in this Instagram reel!)
For your first appointment, our office staff will greet you and bring you back to a private treatment room. From there, you’ll meet your physical therapist (PT) who will guide a comprehensive discussion about your medical history, lifestyle, and specific symptoms you’re experiencing.
Don’t worry; there’s no such thing as oversharing here! The more information you provide, the better equipped your PT will be to tailor your treatment plan to suit your needs. Your PT will want to understand all the components of your pelvic function to design a treatment plan that is specific to you. This will entail asking questions about bowel health, bladder habits, sexual function, childbirth history, injury history, and general medical history that might affect your treatment.
Next up, your PT will do a thorough physical examination. The exam will always start with global function and will look at your back, hips, abdominal muscles, and general mobility. When appropriate, the PT will recommend an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment. This exam is conducted with you lying on a table, draped with a sheet and undressed from the waist down. Your PT may observe your muscles contract and relax, test sensation by touching different areas of your skin with a Q-Tip, and assess the pelvic floor muscles internally through the vagina or rectum using a gloved and lubricated finger to feel for muscle tightness, coordination, and strength. They explain the process each step of the way and will always ask for your consent. If you are uncomfortable with the exam they can stop at any time, and your PT can always skip parts of the exam or defer to a later appointment if you’re not feeling ready for the full exam.
Throughout the evaluation, feel free to ask questions, express any concerns, or request clarification on anything that’s unclear. This is your journey, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, we can work together to achieve optimal results and restore your pelvic health.
By the end of your first evaluation, you’ll leave our clinic feeling empowered, informed, and hopeful about the road ahead.
No matter what your diagnosis, we want you to know that you’re not alone and our dedicated team of professionals are here to help you succeed!
Pelvic health PT for better health and wellness.
Pelvic health physical therapy addresses the unique musculoskeletal problems of the pelvic floor that can have a significant impact on quality of life. Our goal is to improve your function, decrease your pain, guide you on your journey and get you back to the things you love.
