Pelvic floor physiotherapy
our techniques
exercise, education and hands on treatments
Our physiotherapists are trained to do pelvic exams, so we have the ability to assess internally either vaginally or rectally. It’s important to know though that this is not all we do, and certainly not what we jump right into on the first visit!
real time ultrasound assessment (as needed)
Most of our therapists are trained in the use of ultrasound so we can see a picture of your pelvic floor, meaning for those who don’t want us to, we don’t have to go internal. This can be useful if you’re having a hard time connecting - a picture can mean 1000 words.
whole body assessment to find root cause
Pelvic symptoms can come from issues anywhere from top to toe so we use our usual physio skills to assess and treat the whole body, establishing the cause of your symptoms as well as treating them directly.
Internal pelvic floor exams (as needed)
Internal pelvic floor exams are useful as it means we can assess your pelvic floor strength and ability to relax, assess you for any prolapse or issues post birthing, and help give you feedback on how to exercise these muscles as well as do manual elease if needed.
What to expect
- We take a full history. These issues can be complex and it’s important we have a good sense of all factors so we can choose together where best to begin.
- We talk you through our thoughts and where we think it’s best to start, and make a mutual decision from there. This may or may not include an internal exam.
- If we do an internal, it’s just 1 or 2 fingers, no speculum, and you are in a comfy position - no stirrups, not at all like a pap.
- There is, unfortunately, a lot of medical, birth and sexual trauma in our client base, and it’s really important we keep a physio a safe zone for you if you’re to get better. Golden rule - no grinning and bearing it. We have lots of tools and can adapt to you, which is how you get better faster.
- If the issue isn’t coming from your pelvic floor we need to assess where it’s coming from to remove the impact from your pelvic floor.
- Once we have an idea of what’s happening, we develop a care plan with you based on your symptoms and goals, our findings, and your preferences for your care (i.e. prefer virtual / prefer independence with home exercises / prefer frequent appointments for accountability).
- Your treatment could involve hands on manual therapy, exercise, needling, education, coping strategies, clinical pilates, or referrals out to colleagues in our community
- We check in with you every session to ensure we’re meeting your expectations and goals, our aim is to meet you where you’re at every time you come in and do our best to support you to stay on track with your care
Match me with a Cheerful Physio!
Client Story
My RMT recommended The Cheerful Pelvis and I was able to get an appointment very quickly with Corrie. My first appointment with her, I felt safe and she was very kind, thorough, and knowledgable. I always look forward to our sessions and am actually very sad that I had my last appointment today. I am so glad I prioritized seeing a pelvic floor therapist after my last pregnancy — it really is life changing. Highly recommend – 5/5 ♥️