Pelvic Health FAQs

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy is a division of physiotherapy that focuses on conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles.

These muscles are important for the function of bowel and bladder control, respiration, posture, stability, organ support, lymphatic drainage, sexual function/pleasure and the delivery process.

That said, PHPT requires strong understanding of how the rest of the body is moving and often a holistic approach is needed.

Physiotherapist focusing on pelvic health concerns have completed all of the education and licensing requirements as other physiotherapists but have gone on to complete further certifications in order to treat pelvic floor/health related concerns.

(This is sometimes also considered Women’s Health Physiotherapy or Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy)

PHPT is “for everybody and every body.”

I work with all ages and genders.

If you are unsure if I am the right person to help, please feel free to connect with me before booking.

Most initial and subsequent appointments will run 60 minutes in duration.

This can be altered as needed to accommodate specific needs.

Generally speaking, an initial assessment will start with a history taking. Sometimes this is as far as we get depending on how much you wish to share.

Whether it’s on day 1, or our next visit, after hearing your story we’ll move on to a physical exam. During the physical exam, I get a sense of how you use your body to accomplish certain tasks such as: standing, sitting, breathing, bending over, squatting or doing whatever task is concerning you. Typically this is all done by watching but if applicable and with your consent, this may involve some hands on assistance.

After watching you move, I will discuss with you whether an internal exam may be warranted for me to gather more information. An internal exam involves the use of a finger to touch the pelvic floor muscles directly to assess their overall function (i.e. ability to contract and relax). For people with vulvas, this is done vaginally and for those with penises it is performed rectally.

This part of the exam is ALWAYS optional and can be stopped at any point.

While a hands on assessment is able to provide the most accurate information it is not the only option. External palpation of the muscles can provide adequate information regarding pelvic floor function. As well I also use Real-Time Ultrasound Imaging, a non-invasive way to view the pelvic floor and deep core muscles in action.

Essentially, it’s the same tool used to look at an organ or developing fetus.

The probe will have gel (often cool—sorry!) placed on it and used on the lower abdominal area to see the deep core muscles and pelvic floor.

It is painless, helpful and you can keep your pants on!

This varies from person to person and condition to condition. I wholeheartedly believe in empowering patients through coaching and education, so that they can be as independent as possible.

It is common for many conditions to improve in under five sessions, and some in only one. For concerns that have been around for longer, involve more variables or complexities more sessions are often beneficial.

In regards to frequency, that may depend on the condition and your life’s demands. Often treatments are spaced anywhere from 2-4 weeks, sometimes there are months between follow ups.

Your treatment plan will cater to what you are willing and able to commit to physiotherapy at this time. It is important to note, that muscle retraining takes time. It typically takes ~6-8 weeks for noticeable strength changes, and 5 sessions at 4 week intervals is close to half a year. These timelines may sound daunting, but the improvements are always worth it.

Never. It is never too late to start.

It doesn’t matter if you’re years post symptom onset/pregnancy/birth/surgery etc change can still occur.

Yes! Please do!

I understand how difficult it can be to schedule appointments around naps and childcare. I also know that things can change at the drop of a hat.

I try my best to accommodate these hiccups.

Telehealth appointments have been shown to be a very effective method of treatment and I am happy to meet online if it works better for you (even last minute!)

Yes, it’s entirely up to you. Internal assessments can still be performed, and if preferred, there are many other external assessment options.

Nothing.

It’s recommended that you wear pants or shorts that you are able to move in. Tights or sweats are preferred as they allow for movement and can often be palpated (feel the muscles/joints) through or moved out of the way. But it you’ve had “a morning” and you forget, the clinic will be able to provide you with appropriate, but not necessarily stylish, attire.

If you are anticipating an internal exam nothing outside of your normal routine is required.

If you are hesitant or have a specific questions please connect.

Initial and subsequent appointments typically run 60 minutes although 30 minute appointments are an option.

60 min = $140

30 min = $90

If finances are a barrier for you, please connect with me.

No.

All physiotherapists are considered first-line practitioners which means you do not need to see a doctor first.

It is recommended that you discuss your concerns with your primary care provider if you are able to, as some pelvic health concerns can be associated with other issues.

If you have private insurance, a physician’s referral may be required for the appointment to be covered. Please check with your insurance company.

At this time we do not offer direct billing.

If finances are a concern, please connect with me.

Cancellations 24 hour (or more) in advance can be done by clicking here or by calling the clinic at (250) 493-7343.

24 hours or more is appreciated as this allows us enough time to fill the spot with someone from the waitlist.

If you need to cancel in under 24hours please call the clinic. Short notice cancellations may be subject to a $50 cancellation fee.

If you would prefer to change your appointment to a virtual appointment, this can be done up to 10 minutes before your appointment.

Yes.

Most assessments and treatments can be carried out virtually, provided you have a suitable device (smart phone/tablet/computer) and a safe and private space that allows for movement and adequate sound.

Virtual appointments can be a great option for those struggling with childcare, transportation and/or other barriers to meeting in-person.

If you have any questions about this, please connect with me.

No. While pelvic health concerns are a passion and special interest of mine, they cannot be treated in isolation from the rest of the body.

I would be happy to connect about any area of concern of yours.