What to expect at a Pelvic Health appointment

As you are probably aware, a number of our arc Wellness Physiotherapists are trained in Pelvic Health Management.

If issues like bladder or bowel incontinence (leaking), frequency/urgency issues, constipation, sexual pain or discomfort and pelvic organ prolapse are affecting you there is a lot you can do to help manage and improve these issues.

Our Pelvic Health physiotherapists are here to help guide you through these changes and help you to feel comfortable and confident to return to exercise and your social life.

So, what should you expect from a Pelvic Health appointment?

At the first appointment we will talk to you about why you have come to pelvic health physiotherapy and what you want to achieve from these sessions.

arc Wellness Pelvic Health is more than just Kegels exercises. We use breath retraining, postural correction, strength, mobility and manual therapy in your treatment alongside plenty of education and pilates/functional exercises.

How long will it take?

The initial appointment will be 60 minutes and will include a lot of questions (some quite personal) around urination, bowel motions, menstrual and sexual issues and traumas that you may find uncomfortable discussing. It is your choice how much you wish to discuss with us but the information is important and can help with your diagnosis and treatment.

Follow up appointments will usually be 60 minutes depending on what the physiotherapist feels is appropriate after discussion with you around your issue and your goals.

We will let you know what we believe is going on in the initial consultation. If we are unsure we will also let you know this and create a plan forward.

In terms of a treatment plan this may look like 3-6 appointments spread over months.

Internal Assessment

We may ask if you would consent to an internal assessment which is an examination of the vagina or rectum. For internal vaginal assessment the therapist inserts 1-2 gloved fingers and will get you to do a series of bearing down and pelvic floor contractions to feel how your pelvic floor is functioning. You need to feel comfortable about this assessment technique and it is your choice whether to consent to this or not at the time, would prefer to wait until a later appointment or would rather just do external assessments. That is completely OK and we can work around it. You have the right to ask us to stop at any time if you change your mind.

You do not need to “tidy up” or do anything in preparation for this appointment and it is fine to be assessed while you have your period.

Taking a holistic approach

If we felt there was another injury contributing to your issue (eg. low back issue or hip problem) we might talk to you about the option of having a more regular appointment or joining classes to focus on these issues.

We look forward to seeing you in the Studio and moving forward in your rehab journey.

Pricing and Availability

As at November 2022, Pelvic Health appointments are charged at $160/hour or $100/hour if your situation relates to an ACC claim.

We have 3 Physios who can be booked for Pelvic Health issues. Janna and Nina work from both our Kelburn and Hataitai locations and Elaine Clisham who works from our Hataitai Studio.

Please contact us at info@arcphysiopilates.co.nz or 0800 272 749 to BOOK an appointment or for any other related inquiry.