Pelvic health can be a difficult topic to have a conversation about.  So the thought of coming into a PT clinic to speak openly about your pelvic history can be overwhelming.  Nevermind the fear of what else needs to occur at that visit to find out exactly what exercises will help!  Let me quell your fears by explaining what you can expect at your first Pelvic PT visit.

First off, we start with a conversation based on the paperwork you filled out.  I will ask questions regarding your bladder, bowel and sexual health.  The answers to these questions are pertinent to your treatment plan, but I will understand completely if you politely decline to answer them all.  I will also listen to and answer each and every one of your questions so you feel completely comfortable before beginning the examination.

Second, I’m going to perform an external exam.  I’m looking for weakness and tightness in your hips, back, pelvis and legs.  I’m looking at your posture, how you walk and how you breathe.  I’m looking for muscle imbalances, your ability to stand on one leg and how you squat.  

At this point you might be thinking, when is she going to look at my pelvic floor??  Well, the truth is, all of the things mentioned above can contribute to your pelvic floor dysfunction.  Typically I will save the internal exam for the second visit so we can talk about what to expect and I can provide as much information as you’d like.  However if the patient and I decide and agree, an internal exam can be completed on day one.

I hope this brief overview helps to clarify what you can expect on the first day of Pelvic PT.  If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to reach out!

Yours in Pelvic Health,

Danielle L Liegl, PT, MPT

[email protected]