What to expect at
your initial appointment
Prior to the initial appointment you will be asked to fill out a registration form detailing symptoms and relevant medical history - having this information in advance allows more time for the assessment.
The initial appointment takes up to 90 minutes and comprises two parts. The first part is a discussion about the completed form, current symptoms, past medical history and treatment goals are discussed. The second part is a physical assessment, which may involve an internal examination (vaginal or rectal examination). A model of the pelvis is used to explain exactly what the physical assessment involves and it is your choice whether to proceed, decline or ask for more information before making a decision. Internal examinations are only carried out with consent and can be stopped at any time. You are very welcome to be accompanied by a friend or relative to your appointment. If you prefer, a formal chaperone i.e. a trained member of staff can be requested. The Chaperone Notice provides further information.
After the examination, the findings will be explained as well as the reasons for problems experienced and a treatment plan will be formulated. Exercises may be taught and any further treatment that may be required to achieve your individual goals. Follow up treatments take up to 60 minutes.
What to wear?
There is no need to wear any particular clothing, however in order to carry out the assessment some items of clothing may need to be removed to enable a full assessment of the area. For privacy, screening is provided to change behind and a sheet is provided to ensure modesty is maintained.
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Frequently asked questions
What is a women’s health assessment?
​​​Who is it for?
This type of assessment is ideal for women of any age who have pelvic health issues including;
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pelvic floor problems; bladder or bowel leaks, increased frequency or urgency, pelvic pain, a feeling of heaviness or bulge that could indicate pelvic organ prolapse or a feeling that the pelvic floor is weak or just won't relax.
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women going through peri/menopause. Hormonal changes during peri/menopause can lead to pelvic health problems and this assessment helps manage and treat these effectively.
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women with sexual health concerns; pain during intercourse or any discomfort in the pelvic region can be addressed with this type of physiotherapy.
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women who are about to or have recently had gynaecological surgery such as hysterectomy or cancer treatment.
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women who are pregnant and are suffering with pelvic girdle pain (PGP) or may have other pelvic floor problems such as bladder leaks.
What is included?
A detailed discussion regarding;
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current symptoms specifically relating to bladder and bowel function, vaginal symptoms including symptoms of a prolapse as well as sexual function, any concerns relating to pain and posture as well as lifestyle factors.
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past medical history, past surgery, pregnancies, births or gynaecological issues as well as menstrual health and/or menopausal symptoms.
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expectations/goals of physiotherapy.
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A physical examination which may include;
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a pelvic floor examination; if appropriate a pelvic floor examination may be offered. It assesses the strength, coordination and control of the pelvic floor muscles, which play a critical role in bladder, bowel and sexual function. This examination helps assess conditions like pelvic organ prolapse, bladder/bowel leaks or muscle tightness. The pelvic floor examination can be performed externally or internally, it is never compulsory and is always done with consent which is ongoing.
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an assessment of other aspects of pelvic health and may include assessing posture, breathing patterns, pelvic alignment, how your body moves as well as muscle strength focusing on the hips, lower back and pelvis.
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throughout the assessment, your comfort and privacy are a priority. Your consent is required throughout the examination.
Personalised treatment tailored to your individual needs, this may include;
pelvic floor exercises or relaxation techniques for the pelvic floor, completion of a bladder diary, breathing exercises, stretches, strengthening exercises, manual therapy, education and advice, guidance on devices that may be appropriate for the condition.
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How long does the appointment last?
With so much to cover, I allow 90 minutes for the appointment.
After the appointment you will receive an email detailing all the advice and guidance discussed as well as a digital exercise programme that you can access from your phone at any time. In summary, following the assessment you will be provided with a clear understanding of your condition, how to manage it and a roadmap to improve and resolve your symptoms.
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How many appointments will I need?
Some women find that their women’s health assessment is all they need to address their concerns, while others may benefit from follow up appointments depending on the level of treatment required. During the assessment, we will have a thorough discussion about your individual needs, and it's entirely up to you whether you wish to return for further treatment. The decision is always in your hands and treatment is tailored to your personal goals.​
What is a postnatal MOT?
An essential check for all postnatal women.
When should I have it?
The postnatal MOT is normally completed at around 4-6 weeks post birth once wounds (if you have any) are healed, however it can be done sooner if you have specific concerns and can also be done many months after giving birth.
What is included?
A detailed discussion regarding;
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birth history, including: details of labour and delivery (vaginal or C section), any complications or interventions (forceps, epidural, episiotomy, tears), recovery from birth and any postnatal concerns. We discuss current symptoms and how your body feels post birth.
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pelvic floor concerns such as weakness or leaks (bladder and/or bowel) and check for symptoms of a prolapse.
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abdominal separation (diastasis recti) and core strength.
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back, hip or pelvic pain.
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sexual health and resuming intimacy.
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mental well-being and emotional recovery from childbirth.
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expectations/goals of physiotherapy.
A physical examination which may include;
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pelvic floor muscle assessment (internal and/or external as appropriate).
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scar check (as applicable).
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screening for pelvic organ prolapse.
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checking for abdominal separation (diastasis recti).
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posture, alignment, breathing and mobility assessment.
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musculoskeletal assessment (hips, back, pelvis).
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strength check of gluteal muscles, abdominals and any other relevant muscles.
Personalised treatment tailored to your individual goals/needs, this may include;
pelvic floor exercises, strengthening exercises, mobility/flexibility exercises, scar massage techniques/treatment, guidance on lifting/posture e.g. optimal feeding positions (as applicable), lots of education and guidance on prolapse management (if applicable), advice/guidance on safe return to exercise and hobbies.
How long does the appointment last?
With so much to cover, I allow 90 minutes for the appointment.
After the appointment you will receive an email detailing all the advice and guidance discussed as well as a digital exercise programme that you can access from your phone at any time.
How many appointments will I need?
Some women find that their postnatal MOT is all they need to address their concerns, while others may benefit from follow up appointments depending on the level of treatment required. During the assessment, we will have a thorough discussion about your individual needs and it is entirely up to you whether you wish to return for further treatment. The decision is always in your hands and treatment is tailored to your personal goals.
Have I left it too late to resolve my women’s health problems?
No, it is never too late to address any women’s health problems. For example, the pelvic floor is skeletal muscle and like other muscles in the body it will respond to what is asked of it, whether it needs to get stronger or whether it needs to relax. Equally bladder and bowel function can be improved by a better understanding of how these organs work and how to optimise their function.
Are pelvic floor problems due to a weak pelvic floor?
Pelvic floor problems can be due to a weak pelvic floor or can be due to an overactive pelvic floor. Weakness in the pelvic floor muscles is often associated with issues like urinary or bowel leaks, pelvic organ prolapse or reduced support for the pelvic organs. However, an overactive pelvic floor can also cause problems such as pelvic pain, discomfort during activities such as intercourse and difficulty passing a stool. An overactive pelvic floor can also cause bladder problems such as urine leaks, urine urgency or increased frequency. With an overactive pelvic floor, the muscles are often in a state of constant tension, which means they struggle to function normally. Addressing pelvic floor issues effectively depends on identifying the underlying cause because the treatment approach differs; a weak pelvic floor may benefit from strengthening exercises, whilst an overactive pelvic floor often responds better to relaxation techniques and targeted physiotherapy.
What are the most common things clients say to you after their appointment?
"I wish I had seen you years ago"
"I feel back to being me again"
"I can’t believe the difference the physiotherapy has made"
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