We compiled a few of the most common questions we receive about pelvic health assessment and treatment into this handy FAQ post. We hope you find the information you’re looking for:
Q. Who should see a pelvic health physiotherapist?
A. Pelvic floor exams and treatment can be provided for everyone regardless of biological sex (male, female, intersex) or how one identifies on the gender spectrum; so if you’re having any issues, we can help you! We offer treatment for a variety of complaints, most commonly among them are pelvic pain, leakage (bowel and/or bladder), and prolapse.
Q. What can I expect during a pelvic health appointment?
A. At your appointment, you can expect a detailed discussion regarding your symptoms and reason(s) for your visit. Your therapist will then explain more about the pelvic floor, its main functions, as well as specific details about a pelvic exam. This would commonly include evaluating the abdomen and external and internal pelvic muscles and tissues.
We typically start looking at the abdomen. Your therapist will check to see if there is any separation of the abdominal muscle and how those muscles tension. We will then put some pressure on abdominal muscles and tissue to see if there are any areas that are tight, tender, or reproduce your symptoms.
Next your therapist will touch your inner thigh muscles, again, checking to see if there are any tender or tight areas.
The pelvic floor is the area between your legs. With your consent, your therapist will then visually inspect the health of the tissue in this area. They will check to see if there is any visible tissue decent and how the area responds to normally bodily functions such as breathing, coughing, or bearing down. They will then touch the area to look for muscular tightness/tenderness, as well as, check the reflexes to ensure the nerves in these muscle groups are functioning optimally.
The internal assessment is the final portion of this exam. Vaginal exams are regularly performed (with clients that have a vagina) and rectal exams are added in situations where it is warranted after a thorough discussion with the client. An internal exam is important as this is the only way your therapist can accurately assess your “kegal” or pelvic floor strength. The therapist will also check on your ability to lengthen and relax the pelvic muscles, and again, if there are any areas of tightness/tenderness or areas that reproduce symptoms.
Once the physical exam is complete, your therapist will further discuss with you your exam findings, further relevant pelvic floor information, exercises, and the best way to proceed in terms of treatment.
Q. What if I get uncomfortable during the session?
A. We fully respect your bodily autonomy and will meet you where you are at. Please know that each and every portion of these sessions is ALWAYS up to you. Your questions are welcome at any time during our discussions, exam, and treatment. Your therapist will only proceed if you wish to and you have the right to withdraw your consent or choose to discontinue at any time.
Q. Should I cancel my pelvic floor assessment/treatment during my period?
A. As always, this is totally up to you and your comfort level, but don’t cancel on our account! We regularly work with individuals at all times during their cycle and there is actual benefit to this. Our tissues shift and change due to fluctuating hormone levels. It is beneficial for your therapist to evaluate your tissues at these different times and apply this to your overall treatment plan.
If you are currently menstruating, attend your session using your preferred method of protection (ie. pad, tampon, diva cup). When you change for your session, you will need to remove this, but know that we use pads beneath you at every session so any discharge is not a concern.
Please do let your therapist know that you are currently menstruating though, so we are aware that any bleeding or spotting during your exam that day would be normal.
Q. Can I bring my baby with me to my pelvic health session?
A. Absolutely! Babies are always welcome. We want you to feel comfortable and relaxed during your session and we recognise that this looks different for everyone. You may choose, for example, to keep your baby in a car seat, hold your baby, or nurse– any and all of these options (among others) can be accommodated during your pelvic floor exam.
Can’t find your question on this list?
Email us at info@hityourstride.ca or direct message us on any of our social media platforms
Instagram: @hityour_stride
Facebook: @StridePhysioPerformance
Twitter: @hityour_Stride
All communication will remain confidential.
-STRIDE