What can I expect during my consultation with a pelvic floor physiotherapist?

Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will take a thorough history and discuss your symptoms. They will need to ask you questions such as how long you’ve been suffering from your symptoms, how often you suffer from symptoms, how you are managing your symptoms, and many other questions as part of the initial assessment. You will be explained how your pelvic floor anatomy works so that you understand why you are suffering from symptoms and how the therapy aims to treat your symptoms. Depending on your symptoms, your therapist may need to conduct a physical examination, which may include internal vaginal or rectal examinations. All physical examinations are fully explained, and consent is sought at every step. You have the right to decline a physical examination, or request a support person to be in the room with you. Physical examinations provide critical information to your physiotherapist on the cause of your symptoms and how to best treat them.