Pelvic health physiotherapy can offer evidence based treatment to help restore comfort and confidence if you are experiencing pelvic pain, urinary leakage, or postpartum concerns. Uncertainty about the first appointment often leads to delays in seeking care.
This guide explains what to expect from a pelvic health physiotherapy session at our Bloomsbury clinic, near Tottenham Court Road. Whether you are considering women’s health physiotherapy in London for the first time or simply want to understand the process better, this article provides clear answers to help you feel prepared and reassured.
What Happens at a Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Session?
Your first session includes a private consultation, movement, and pelvic floor assessment (internal exam only if you consent), a clear diagnosis, and a personalised treatment plan with exercises, education, and follow up care.
Your first pelvic health physiotherapy appointment lasts about 60 minutes and focuses on understanding your concerns, conducting an assessment, and developing a tailored treatment plan. The setting is private and comfortable for confidential discussion.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The appointment starts with a detailed conversation about your medical history, symptoms, and goals. Your physiotherapist will ask about bladder and bowel function, pain patterns, pregnancy and birth history, and how symptoms affect your daily life. This helps identify the underlying causes of your condition and ensures treatment is tailored to your specific needs.
Physical Examination
With consent, the physiotherapist does a physical assessment. This may include observing posture, breathing, and movement. An internal exam may be recommended to assess pelvic floor function.
Internal examinations are always optional. You remain in control throughout, and your physiotherapist will explain each step, offer alternatives, and check your comfort level before and during the process. Privacy, respect, and consent are central to every appointment.
Treatment Plan Development
Based on your assessment, your physiotherapist explains your diagnosis and creates a treatment plan. This often includes exercises, manual therapy, lifestyle advice, and education about pelvic health. You may start treatment during your first visit. Follow ups track progress and adjust your plan.
How Does Pelvic Physiotherapy Work?
Pelvic physiotherapy restores normal function to the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding tissues using tailored exercises, manual therapy, relaxation or strengthening, and education.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy addresses dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles and related structures that support the bladder, bowel, and uterus.
Treatment varies by condition. If muscles are weak or underactive, your physiotherapist will teach strengthening and coordination exercises. If muscles are overactive or tense, the focus shifts to relaxation, stretching, and releasing tension. Manual therapy may improve tissue mobility and ease pain.
Your physiotherapist may also assess posture, breathing, and habits. Pelvic rehabilitation addresses all contributing factors. Education helps you manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Is Pelvic Physiotherapy Painful?
No, pelvic physiotherapy should not be painful. Mild discomfort can occur, but your physiotherapist always works within your comfort levels.
Sessions are designed to be comfortable. Some techniques may cause mild pressure, but never pain. Internal assessments are gentle and only with consent. If you prefer, treatment can begin with external or movement based approaches.
Manual therapy may feel like deep tissue massage, but it should relieve, not cause pain. Communication keeps you comfortable. Techniques are carefully adjusted to promote relaxation.
What Should I Wear to a Pelvic Physio Appointment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows movement and easy access for assessment. Two piece outfits work best.
A loose top with trousers or a skirt allows easy movement and changing. Many prefer a dress or skirt for partial coverage during an exam. Privacy is provided. Avoid tight jeans or layered clothing.
If you are unsure, contact the clinic beforehand — our Central London pelvic health clinic team can advise what is most suitable for your appointment.
Do I Need a GP Referral for Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?
No GP referral is needed for private care. You can book directly with a pelvic health physiotherapist.
You can access pelvic floor physiotherapy at a private clinic without a GP referral. For complex cases, your physiotherapist may suggest that you update your GP. Private treatment allows faster access. At our Bloomsbury clinic, new patients are seen within one to two weeks.
NHS physiotherapy often requires a GP referral and has longer waits. To learn more about our services, visit our women’s health physiotherapy clinic in London page or contact our team to book an appointment.
How Long Does Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Take to Work?
Many patients notice improvement in two to six weeks, with more significant changes in six to twelve weeks. Recovery time varies depending on your condition and consistency.
Progress depends on factors such as symptom severity, how long the issue has been present, and how regularly you follow your plan. Conditions like mild incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse often improve noticeably within a few months. Chronic pelvic pain or severe dysfunction may take longer and require steady, guided progress. Your physiotherapist will set realistic goals and track your improvements. Regular home exercises are essential for success.
According to POGP (Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy), specialist pelvic floor physiotherapy delivered by trained clinicians is supported by good evidence: “pelvic floor muscle training is the first line treatment … and even when compared to other methods, it is a superior approach in the management of pelvic floor dysfunction.“
Conclusion and Next Steps
Knowing what to expect from pelvic health physiotherapy can help ease uncertainty and support early care. At our Central London clinic in Bloomsbury, you can expect a thorough initial assessment, a personalised treatment plan, and guidance in a private, supportive environment.
Whether you are managing postpartum recovery, pelvic pain, or urinary symptoms, tailored physiotherapy can make a lasting difference to your quality of life. If you are ready to begin, please contact our team to book your appointment. We are here to help you move comfortably and confidently again. Our Central London physiotherapy clinic in Bloomsbury is within a short walk of Tottenham Court Road station, making it easy to access specialist pelvic health care when you need it.