Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't pelvic health physical therapy work for me before?
Your care may not have been provided by a physical therapist specifically trained in pelvic health. If you were told just to do Kegels or never had a true pelvic floor muscle evaluation, you didn’t receive comprehensive pelvic health care. Some clinics advertise “pelvic floor physical therapy” when the care is actually very general or provided by someone without advanced pelvic health training. At Empowered Women's Health, your provider specializes in helping patients who have not found lasting relief from pelvic floor physical therapy they received elsewhere.
Can I just do Kegels?
A healthy pelvic floor is about so much more than Kegels. Your pelvic floor muscles need the right balance of length, coordination, and strength working together. Sometimes the problem isn’t just with your pelvic floor muscles. For example, contracting your core muscles incorrectly can put extra pressure on your bladder, which can cause leaks. In fact, doing Kegels can sometimes make your symptoms worse. There are many possible reasons for symptoms such as urinary leakage, pain with intercourse, lower abdominal pain, or other concerns. A thorough evaluation helps us find the root cause so you receive the care that is right for you.
What happens during my first visit?
During the first visit, the focus is on truly hearing your story in order to understand your unique experience and needs. A comprehensive movement evaluation helps uncover how different areas like the pelvis, hips, back, core, and limbs work together, while also paying attention to everyday movements such as walking, sitting, and bending. The pelvic floor muscles are gently evaluated using both external and internal techniques to understand their function. Combining this information creates a personalized plan designed specifically to support your healing and goals.
Is an internal exam required?
An internal exam can be one of the most effective ways to understand how your pelvic muscles are working and identify the root cause of your concerns. That said, it’s never required and will only be done if you feel completely comfortable. Your pelvic floor therapist will always explain your options, answer your questions, and support you in choosing the exams and treatments that feel right for you. Your comfort is our top priority, and we take that very seriously.
Does Empowered Women’s Health Physical Therapy treat men?
Yes! Although Empowered Women's Health's mission is to improve women's healthcare, we understand that men need access to quality care as well. Therefore, we're happy to offer male pelvic floor physical therapy for many conditions including pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, tailbone pain, hip pain, core weakness, pre and post operative care, and more.
Can my kids come to my pelvic health treatments?
Of course! We understand that life with little ones can be busy, so your kids are always welcome to be with you during your appointments. We want to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.