What to expect from a Pelvic Health Physiotherapy appointment

What will happen in our first appointment?

Your appointment will usually take place in a private treatment room with the door closed. You will be asked several questions to find out about your problems in more detail. This will include questions about your medical history and day to day life.

You do not need to wear any special clothing to your appointments, but you may be asked to undress the body area relating your problem, so that appropriate assessment can be carried out.

If your problems are related to your pelvic floor, an internal examination (vaginal examination or ano-rectal examination) is often advised to assess your pelvic floor function. This can be completed at the first appointment or at a subsequent appointment.  We will discuss what it involves and why it is advisable.  You do not have to have this examination, and you have the right to say no or to change your mind at any point.

After a full assessment, we will discuss findings and a plan of treatment. You will have opportunity during your appointments to ask any questions that you may have.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

It may be helpful to bring a list of current medications that you are taking.

If you are attending for symptoms relating to your bladder, it can be useful to fill in a bladder diary ahead of your appointment (PDF). You can download the form to print, fill in and bring with you.

Chaperones

A chaperone is a third party to an appointment or clinical examination, who aims to provide support and reassurance to the patient, witness the continuing consent to a procedure, and on occasion provide practical help to the physiotherapist.

All patients are entitled to a chaperone prior to any physical examinations.  If you would like a formal chaperone present, please inform us prior to your appointment. You may ask for a chaperone at any time and you have the right to decline treatment until one is provided.  You are welcome to bring someone, such as an adult family member or friend, along to your appointments.