What is involved in a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Assessment?

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists assess and treat dysfunctions of the pelvic floor, such as urinary leakage, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with sexual intercourse and/or insertion of a tampon, overactive bladder symptoms, etc. Chronic low back pain and hip pain can also be related to the pelvic floor.

What to expect during pelvic floor physiotherapy:

Prior to the assessment, a pelvic health symptom questionnaire will be sent out, asking various bladder/bowel questions and gynecological history. In the assessment, your Physiotherapist will start by discussing your medical history, bladder and bowel symptoms, pelvic pain and/or back and hip pain. Afterwards, your Pelvic Health Physiotherapist will discuss with you the outline of the assessment.

Pelvic Health Physiotherapists will assess the mobility of your mid back, low back and hips, tension of the muscles in your thighs, glutes and back, as well as your muscle strength. In addition to assessing externally, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists are trained to perform internal exams (intravaginally) if patients are comfortable having an internal performed.

During the internal, the Physiotherapist will be assessing the tone/tension of the muscles, as well as the strength of the musculature. The internal exam is completely optional, and not mandatory for the assessment. There is lots of work that can be done externally to help reduce symptoms. 

Your Physiotherapist will also review some exercises focusing on stretching and/or strengthening exercises to help settle down your symptoms. 

If you have any questions or concerns about a Pelvic Health Physiotherapy assessment, our Physiotherapist Jessica offers a free 15 minute consultation to address any questions. To book online, click here, or call the clinic at 519-208-0333.