What to expect at your first appointment?
We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before your appointment (at the check-in time). You will be asked to fill out forms about your medical history and symptoms. We will also ask to make a copy of your photo identification and insurance card. After paperwork, you will meet with your therapist. During that conversation, there will be more questions, education about pelvic floor muscle function, options for examination and treatment, and time to ask questions. If you are comfortable with an examination, you may have one. Some opt to wait for an examination until another visit or opt to not have an examination at all; it is your choice and depends on what feels most comfortable for you.
What is a pelvic floor muscle examination? How is a PT exam different from an OB/GYN exam?
Physical therapists are trained in assessment of the strength, function, and coordination of muscles. As with any muscles in the body, we can complete a thorough muscular assessment of the pelvic floor. Our exams are different from an OB/GYN exam as we do not use speculums or collect samples. We assess muscles through a technique called palpation, where one finger is inserted to assess muscle tone, strength and function. Biofeedback may be suggested as well. With this, stickers are placed on the pelvic floor muscles, externally, and the activity of these muscles is projected to a handheld screen.
Do I have to have an exam?
An exam provides the most information regarding the function, coordination and strength of your pelvic floor muscles. An exam is optional and will only be completed with consent from you. We do have additional ways to assess the pelvic floor muscles that you can discuss with your therapist at your appointment. These may include biofeedback or external assessment of your pelvic floor muscles. You may also have a chaperone. We can provide one or you can bring a trusted friend or family member with you.
How should I prepare for an exam?
Do men get exams?
Do children get exams?
How can pelvic floor physical therapy help me?
How often will I need to attend therapy?
You don’t have to do anything extra to prepare for an exam. It is safe to have an exam or treatment during menstruation.
Yes! Everyone has a pelvic floor, and the muscles are very similar in men and women. Men benefit from pelvic floor assessments as well.
Children mostly use biofeedback for assessment of their pelvic floor muscles.
The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for bowel and bladder control, sexual function, and pelvic pain. We treat these conditions all the time, similarly to any other muscles in the body. We use a variety of treatment approaches including manual therapy, biofeedback, strengthening, stretching, dry needling, visceral therapy, myofascial release, and more. We recommend coming in for at least one appointment to meet with a therapist. After a thorough evaluation, we can determine which treatment approach will be best for you.
The frequency and duration of physical therapy is highly variable and specific to you. It is difficult to estimate how much physical therapy is indicated until your evaluation. We see patients as often as 1-2 times per week and as little as 1 time every few months. By the end of your first appointment, your therapist can provide you with a suggestion for your recommended frequency and duration of care. If you have financial constraints or are concerned about traveling to your appointment, we encourage you to discuss this with your therapist at your first appointment. We also offer telehealth appointments.