Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

This service is currently offered at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton and Hotel-Dieu of St. Joseph in Perth-Andover.

What is pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that addresses pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in both men and women. Many conditions are the result of this type of dysfunction, such as incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse (causing pelvic organs to fall downward), and pelvic pain. It includes prenatal and postpartum care for women having babies. Men with incontinence after prostate surgery, as well as women with pain during intercourse after breast or gynecological cancer treatment, can also benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy. Sometimes your low back pain is actually coming from pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.

Do I need pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction are not topics we tend to discuss, but ignoring those issues will only worsen your symptoms over time. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help you improve the function of your pelvic floor muscles. You may benefit from it if you suffer from urinary or fecal incontinence, urinary urgency, painful intercourse, interstitial cystitis (bladder condition), endometriosis, pelvic organ prolapse or pelvic pain in pregnancy. It can also help you regain your muscle function in the postpartum period.

What should I expect on my first visit?

You should allow about an hour for your first appointment. You will meet your physiotherapist, who will interview you to learn more about your symptoms and general health. You will also discuss and set goals that you want to achieve through your treatment. The next step is a physical assessment which includes external and internal exams vaginally and possibly rectally. Most people are hesitant or nervous about this portion of the assessment, but your physiotherapist will walk you through every step of the process, so you feel comfortable and in control. In some cases, if the internal exam is too difficult or painful for you, we can begin with an external assessment and an assessment of the hips and low back, and ease into an internal assessment later on, if appropriate.

How do I prepare for my visit?

There is no special preparation required. Be ready to discuss your symptoms and think about what you want to improve with treatment. If you have a referral, you can bring it with you.

What type of treatment will I receive in pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Your treatment sessions are usually between 30–45 minutes long. Your physiotherapist will recommend a plan tailored to your needs, based on the assessment. Most sessions involve an internal component, and you will be taught specific exercises to improve the function of the pelvic floor muscles. Most treatments are either aimed at helping to strengthen weak muscles or at reducing tightness in shortened, painful muscles. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is gentle and should not cause an increase in your pain.

How do I access physiotherapy for my pelvic floor?

Call 1-833-928-2070 and select Physiotherapy, followed by the site that applies to you (Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital or Upper River Valley Hospital). Your call will be directed so you can book an appointment.