What is Women's Health Physiotherapy?
Women’s Health Physiotherapists are musculoskeletal physiotherapists who have undertaken further training in the treatment of all conditions relating to women.
These may include:
∙ Pelvic or pregnancy related dysfunction
∙ Birth preparation
∙ Postpartum recovery of the abdominal wall and/or pelvic floor
∙ Sexual pain
∙ Pelvic organ prolapse
∙ Urinary/faecal incontinence and
∙ Coping with physical changes that may occur during menopause
Women’s Health Physiotherapists understand both the physical and emotional impact that these conditions may have on a woman’s life. We promise a sensitive, holistic approach.
What will my first appointment involve?
Initial consultations are 60 minutes, giving us time to hear your whole story and allowing your physiotherapist to better understand your concerns, priorities and most importantly your individual goals.
Assessments will differ dependent on symptom presentation, however a posture/movement screen will always be performed to identify any external factors that may be contributing to your symptoms.
A Real Time Ultrasound machine may be used to gain a deeper understanding of your abdominal wall/pelvic floor function.
Our Women’s Health Physiotherapists are specifically trained to perform internal pelvic floor assessments which provide the most information with regards to pelvic dysfunction. This would only be performed when deemed necessary and not without informed consent.
Necessary treatment would be performed and a management plan created to guide your future sessions.
Pessary prescription
A pessary is a device that fits into the vagina to help support and relieve the symptoms of a prolapse of the uterus, bladder and/or rectum (bottom of the bowel) or symptoms of stress urinary incontinence.
It is important to have a thorough pelvic examination with a Women's Health Physiotherapist to determine the cause/s of a potential prolapse and the appropriate course of treatment to best manage the individuals symptoms. If a pessary is recommended, this will need to be fitted properly and reviewed at intervals as guided by the Physiotherapist. Note it may take several tries to get the right pessary for each person.
If you have been recommended a pessary or think this may be appropriate for you, book in for a Women's Health Initial appointment and your Physiotherapist will determine the appropriate management plan for you.
Birth Courses at The Studio
Born Ready - A birth course created by Physiotherapists that gives you the science behind birth, mental grit and the knowledge to prepare your mind AND body. Walk away with understanding, skills and strategies to approach birth with confidence and a sense of calm.
Born Ready is made up of 2 Hours of online modules along with a 2 hour face to face Practical Workshop - hosted at The Studio. Born Ready is unique in it's design being cost and time effective, intimate with small group workshops and inclusive with a strong focus on both the birthing mother AND birth partner.
We are so passionate about sharing this valuable information and are more than happy to chat if you're unsure of your needs.
See The Born Ready Website for more information and for practical workshop dates and bookings.
Did you know?
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1 in 3 women experience urinary incontinence within the first 3 months following baby delivery (although very common, incontinence is not normal and should not simply be put up with!)
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Exercise in the postpartum period has been shown to offer a number of positive health benefits, particularly in the treatment of postpartum depression
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Urinary incontinence effects between 35-37% of women worldwide (again, common NOT normal)
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11% of the world’s population have an overactive bladder
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Many patients diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis are found to have no bladder pathology but rather Pelvic floor dysfunction
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5% of women experience Anal Incontinence up to 1 year post vaginal delivery
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25.4% of women have persistent pelvic pain. This is often associated with Pelvic floor dysfunction
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83% of women have sexual problems at 3 months post-natal, 64% at 6 months post-natal
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Active women have less distressing menopause symptoms
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If your bladder leaks with exercise, you are 9 times more likely to leak later in life
At The Studio, we are passionate about the care of women throughout ALL life stages. We believe every woman is unique and deserves individualised care, tailored to their needs. From adolescence, pregnancy, postpartum and menopause, we are here to help make your journey easier.
FAQ's
Can I bring my baby?
Yes, absolutely! We love meeting your babies. We have a bouncer on hand in the consult room if that suits your little one and also have plenty of toys for distraction. Our lovely receptionist team are also world-class baby whisperers happy to provide cuddles as needed.
How many sessions will I need?
No one size fits all unfortunately. The number of sessions required will depend on the complexity of your condition and how much can be self-managed. Our Physio's will be sure to discuss your ongoing management plan with you during your first session.
When should I book in post baby?
We recommend booking in approximately 6 weeks postpartum, but it's entirely up to you. If your delivery was challenging, the earlier the better and same goes if you are feeling up to it come in as soon as able. Please don't put too much pressure on yourself however. We understand how difficult it is to get out the door. We are here for you when you're ready. Please note you do not need to wait to see your doctor to get started on your rehab journey with the Physio.
I have my period, is it ok to still book in?
We believe a woman should never be denied an internal pelvic floor assessment and having your period would not affect any of our findings so don't let that stop you from booking.
Do you treat women of all ages?
Yes! We see teenagers, middle aged and older women. As we transition through different life stages our needs change and we are here for you throughout the entire journey.
How do I decide if I need a Women’s health appointment or just a regular Physio appointment?
If you are not sure, it's always helpful to have a chat with our receptionist team over the phone when or before booking in. If you believe the root cause of your condition is related to your pelvis or if it is specific to women, better to err on the side of caution and book in with our Women's Health Physio's - they are Musculoskeletal/general Physio's too!
I’m pregnant, is it ok to book in?
Absolutely! Always let your Physio know if you are/could be pregnant. Depending on which trimester you're in, your needs will differ and we will cater to them. With a view to having a comfortable pregnancy and being as strong as possible in the postpartum period, we recommend coming in as early as possible. If your pregnancy is high-risk, we are happy to liaise with your midwife/obstetrician as appropriate.
Do I have to have an assessment before getting back into exercise? And if so why?
Yes. After a pregnancy, injury or time away from exercise your bio-mechanics and pelvic floor function are likely to have changed. Identifying and addressing this will help to prevent an injury and select exercises better suited to you. The assessment is for your benefit. If you are up to 6months post natal we ask that you book an assessment before joining our classes. Post 6 months of course this is still recommended!
Do I need a doctors referral?
No! You can book straight in to see our Women's Health team