Have questions about pelvic floor physiotherapy? Get your answers from the professionals.
What is pelvic floor physio?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a branch of physiotherapy focused on assessing and treating the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. The goal is to improve bladder, bowel, sexual, and core function, as well as reduce pain in the low back and pelvis. It can also provide valuable support as your body adapts to the physical changes of pregnancy and postpartum.
What should I expect for my initial appointment?
At your initial appointment, your pelvic floor physiotherapist will begin by asking questions to better understand your pelvic health history and current concerns. This is often followed by a general assessment of movement and mobility in the lower back, hips, and pelvis.
With your informed consent, your therapist may then perform an external and/or internal pelvic floor assessment. This allows them to evaluate muscle tone at rest, strength, coordination, and any findings that are specific to you, so your treatment plan can be individualized to your needs.
What if I am on my period?
Our pelvic floor physiotherapists are trained to perform assessments at any stage of your menstrual cycle, including during your period. If you feel comfortable proceeding, we are happy to continue with your appointment.
If you would prefer not to have an internal assessment that week, that is completely okay. Pelvic floor therapy can still be very helpful without an internal exam, and we can focus on education, external assessment, movement, and symptom management. If you would rather reschedule, we completely understand and are happy to rebook you for a time that feels more comfortable.
Will I be given exercises?
Yes! The pelvic floor works closely with the muscles of your core, hips, and back. Based on your individual assessment and goals, your therapist may provide specific stretches, strengthening exercises, or a combination of both to support your mobility, reduce pain, and improve strength and overall function.
How can pelvic floor physio support me during pregnancy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can support you in many ways throughout pregnancy and into the postpartum period.
In the first trimester, we often focus on building foundational strength and improving pelvic stability. During the second trimester, we continue progressing strength while also managing symptoms and supporting tissue mobility as your body changes.
In the third trimester, the focus often shifts toward pelvic floor relaxation, breathing strategies, maintaining low back comfort, optimizing hip mobility, and educating on and guiding perineal massage to help prepare the tissues for birth, all to support comfort and confidence heading into labour and delivery.
Postpartum, pelvic floor physiotherapy can support scar healing (including perineal or cesarean scars), restore core strength, improve posture, and guide you safely back to your desired activities.
Is it okay to see a pelvic floor physio and skip the internal assessment?
Absolutely. Your comfort is always our top priority. While an internal assessment can often provide valuable information and help guide your treatment plan, it is never mandatory.
If you prefer not to have an internal exam, we completely respect that. There are many ways to assess and treat pelvic floor concerns externally, and we will work with you to create a plan that feels safe, supportive, and aligned with your comfort level.