Frequently Asked Questions
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Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized type of physiotherapy that focuses on strengthening and rehabilitating the pelvic floor muscles and to improve the “communication” between bladder, bowel, and your reproductive organs. Pelvic floor physiotherapists use a variety of techniques, including exercises, manual therapy, and education, to help treat issues like incontinence, urgency, pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse.
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Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help with a wide range of conditions, including:
- Urinary incontinence (leaking urine)
- Fecal incontinence (difficulty controlling bowel movements)
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Chronic pelvic pain and sexual related pain
- Painful intercourse
- Pregnancy and Postpartum preparation and recovery
- Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)
- Constipation and difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
- and many other conditions
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During your first appointment, the physiotherapist will take a detailed medical history and ask about your symptoms. They may also conduct a physical assessment to evaluate the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles. Depending on the situation, this may include an internal exam to assess muscle tone and coordination. The physiotherapist will then create a personalized treatment plan, which may include exercises, lifestyle modifications, and education.
If you’d like to read more, check Alina’s blog post
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No, pelvic floor physiotherapy is beneficial for individuals of all genders and ages. While it’s commonly associated with women, particularly during pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause, men and children can also experience pelvic floor issues. Conditions such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction can be treated with pelvic floor physiotherapy in both men and women.
For more on pelvic floor and men read Alina’s Blog post
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No, you don’t need a referral to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your insurance provider or the physiotherapy clinic to confirm if you have any benefit in going to your GP first. If you believe you need pelvic floor physiotherapy as part of your treatment plan, give the clinic a call.
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The time it takes to see results varies depending on the condition and the compliance and response to treatment. Many people begin to notice improvements within a few weeks of starting pelvic floor physiotherapy, especially when they are committed to doing their exercises and following the exercises and advises. For chronic conditions or more severe cases, it may take longer, and ongoing treatment may be necessary to maintain progress.