Helpful Advice
What is pelvic health physiotherapy?
Pelvic health physiotherapy involves treatment for people with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
This includes those with bladder and bowel problems, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction, erectile pain and dysfunction, pregnancy and postnatal care.
We are also able to help people before and after surgery – including prostate surgery and gynaecological surgery.
Our pregnancy and postnatal recovery includes back and abdominal care, postural advice, safe return to exercise, and general rehabilitation.
What can I expect at my first appointment if I have pelvic floor problems?
Most people are not quite sure what to expect from their first pelvic health physio appointment, and it is normal to feel a bit nervous.
We start with a thorough assessment. This involves a discussion about what your concerns are and the impact this is having on you. We know it can be quite difficult to talk about some of these sensitive issues, however we are used to doing this and all staff are trained to help you feel at ease.
We use diagrams and models to help educate you about what we think is happening and explain how we do a physical assessment. This may include a vaginal or rectal exam. We get a lot of information by doing an internal examination however it is not necessary if you decide you are not comfortable to have one. We are also aware that for some people the models may be distressing, so we will ask permission to show you these. We have many options in terms of photos and diagrams so we can usually find something suitable.
Once we have made a diagnosis, we will provide a treatment programme tailored specifically to your needs. For more information click here.
Please note: We don’t have any affiliations with insurance companies. If you have insurance cover, we can issue a receipt that you can then send to them for reimbursement.
How do I make an appointment?
You can call our receptionist on 04 802 4225 or email us info@pelvicphysio.co.nz
Please let us know if you would like to talk to one of our physios before booking.
How are you caring for people now that we are living with Covid?
We have always been highly conscious of hygiene and infection control, to keep you safe. We ask that people not come to the clinic if they are unwell, particularly if they have cough or cold symptoms, or have tested positive for Covid.
Mask use is now optional – you are welcome to use a mask and we are happy to put one on if you would prefer. Please let us know.
We understand that some people may not want to have a face-to-face appointment and we do offer Telehealth appointments. For more information click here
How long is the appointment?
The follow-up appointments are half an hour. (Occasionally we may recommend a one-off one-hour follow-up session if we think it would be more beneficial for you)
What if I have my period?
This is not a problem. You can still come to your appointment. Our physios are still happy to do pelvic floor checks, but if you’d prefer not to, we can do other treatment that day.
Where can I park?
There is plenty of parking around us – most of our patients are able to find a park on the streets nearby. There are also a number of carparks close by, including Taranaki St Parking, next to Les Mills (Hope Gibbons building), Te Papa carpark and Reading Wakefield.
We are also very close to many major bus routes – we are located near the corner of Taranaki St and Courtenay Pl so if you are unsure ask the driver where is best to get off.
Are all physiotherapists able to help with pelvic floor problems?
No. Our staff are highly skilled in this area – they have spent a lot of time doing extra training in pelvic floor dysfunction and are experts in their field. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience, so you can be sure you are receiving the highest quality of care.
All staff regularly attend update courses and we run a fortnightly in-house training sessions to share our knowledge with one another.
Can I bring my children?
Some people prefer not to have the distraction of children, especially at the first appointment. We are happy for you to bring babies in and we understand that there are times when you need to bring toddlers in. We do not provide child care, however you can have your baby / infant in the treatment room. Older children are welcome to sit quietly in the corner of the room or in our reception area.
What should I wear?
Please just wear your normal daily clothing to your first appointment. We want you to feel comfortable.
How many sessions will I need?
Many people will only require two to four sessions, spread over a few months. After your first consultation we will discuss your treatment plan with you and will be able to advise you on expected timeframes.
It is our goal to teach you strategies for self-management, so that you are not reliant on coming in to us every week for treatment.
How do insurance payments work?
We do not have any affiliations with insurance companies. Generally payment is expected at the time of the appointment. We can issue a receipt that you can then send to your insurance company.