September 11th, 2024
What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
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What do I wear to Pelvic Floor Therapy?
During a pelvic floor exam, it’s essential to wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access for the healthcare provider while also ensuring you feel relaxed and at ease. Here are some suggestions for what to wear:
–Loose-Fitting Clothing: Choose loose-fitting pants or a skirt that can easily be pulled down or lifted up without much hassle. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that may be difficult to maneuver during the exam.
–Comfortable Underwear: Opt for comfortable, breathable underwear that you don’t mind being seen by a healthcare provider. Avoid thongs or other underwear styles that may be uncomfortable during the exam.
–Easy-to-Remove Layers: If you’re wearing multiple layers, such as a sweater or jacket, make sure they can be easily removed if needed. This allows for quick access during the exam without causing unnecessary discomfort.
–Minimal Jewelry: Remove any excessive jewelry, especially around the pelvic area, as it may interfere with the exam or cause discomfort. Stick to minimal jewelry or accessories that won’t get in the way.
–Sanitary Products: If you’re menstruating, consider wearing a menstrual cup. Be sure to communicate this to your healthcare provider before the exam begins.
–Comfortable Shoes: While you may not need to remove your shoes for a pelvic floor exam, wearing comfortable shoes can help you feel more relaxed during the appointment.
For the external pelvic floor exam, the patient is not required to remove the clothing. In such exams, the healthcare provider will assess the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding structures externally, often through gentle palpation or observation.
For an internal pelvic floor exam, where the healthcare provider needs to directly assess the pelvic floor muscles and structures internally, it’s typically necessary to remove all clothing from the waist down. This ensures unobstructed access for the healthcare provider to perform the examination accurately.
During an internal pelvic floor exam, patients will typically be provided with a gown or drape to cover for privacy until the examination begins. The healthcare provider will then guide the patient through the process, explaining each step and ensuring comfort throughout the procedure. It’s essential to communicate any concerns or discomfort you may have with your healthcare provider before or during the exam.
Remember that your comfort and privacy are important during a pelvic floor exam, so feel free to communicate any concerns or preferences with your healthcare provider before the exam begins.
What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a non surgical approach to rehabilitation of dysfunctions in the pelvis that contribute to bladder, bowel, pain and sexual health complaints. The approaches may include manual therapy, education, behavioral modification, therapeutic exercises and functional training.
This week’s blog post dives into what pelvic floor therapy is, who may benefit from pelvic floor therapy, and what is to be expected during a pelvic floor therapy exam.
How do I Know if I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Individuals that may benefit from pelvic floor therapy include those who experience:
-Pelvic pain
-Incontinence or issues with voiding
-Frequent pain when urinating
-Sexual dysfunction
-Painful Menstruation
-Chronic pain linked to endometriosis, irritable bowel syndrome or fibromyalgia
-Pre and postpartum lower abdominal pain/weakness
What Happens on the First Day of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
The first day of pelvic floor physical therapy can be daunting for someone who has never had pelvic floor therapy. Here is a general outline of what typically happens during the initial session and what you can expect to occur as you begin your treatment journey.
–Medical History and Assessment: The pelvic floor physical therapist will start by taking a detailed medical history, including any relevant medical conditions, surgeries, medications, and symptoms related to pelvic health. They may ask about your bladder and bowel habits, sexual function, and any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing.
–Discussion of Goals and Expectations: You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your goals and expectations for pelvic floor physical therapy. Whether you’re seeking relief from pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, or other symptoms, the therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
–Physical Examination: The therapist will perform a physical examination to assess your pelvic floor muscles and surrounding structures. This may involve both external and internal assessment techniques, depending on your symptoms and comfort level. The internal examination, if indicated, is typically done with your consent and in a gentle, respectful manner.
–Education and Instruction: You’ll receive education about the pelvic floor muscles, their function, and how they relate to your symptoms. The therapist may teach you exercises to improve pelvic floor muscle strength, coordination, and relaxation. They may also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, bladder and bowel habits, posture, and ergonomics to support your pelvic health.
–Treatment Planning: Based on the assessment findings and your treatment goals, the therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include a combination of manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, behavioral strategies, and self-care practices to address your specific needs.
–Setting Expectations: The therapist will discuss what to expect during the course of pelvic floor physical therapy, including the frequency and duration of treatment sessions, potential challenges, and milestones to track progress.
–Follow-Up and Continued Care: You’ll schedule follow-up appointments to continue your pelvic floor physical therapy. The therapist may also recommend additional assessments or referrals to other healthcare providers, such as a urologist, gynecologist, or colorectal surgeon, as needed.
Throughout the first day of pelvic floor physical therapy, communication between you and your therapist is essential. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express any concerns or discomfort, and actively participate in your treatment plan to maximize the benefits of therapy.
How Painful Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy should not be painful, but some discomfort may occur, especially during certain assessments or treatment techniques. However, it’s important to distinguish between discomfort and pain during pelvic floor therapy. It’s important to communicate openly with your pelvic floor physical therapist throughout the treatment process. If you experience pain or discomfort that exceeds your tolerance level, be sure to let your therapist know so they can modify the treatment plan accordingly. Additionally, practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization, can help manage discomfort during pelvic floor therapy sessions. Overall, the goal of pelvic floor therapy is to improve pelvic health and function while prioritizing your comfort and well-being.