Pelvic Health Physiotherapy appointment

This information will help you prepare for your Pelvic Health Physiotherapy appointment. Thank you for your patience waiting to access this service. 

What to expect

Your appointment will be in a private treatment room. During your session, your physiotherapist will:

• Ask questions to understand your concerns, symptoms, and what matters most to you.
• Discuss your medical history, recovery, and daily life.
• Explore symptoms such as pain; leaking of wee, wind or poo (incontinence); or heaviness/ bulge.
• Decide if it may be helpful to check your pelvic floor and do an examination. You may need to undress for this, but you don’t need to wear any special clothing to your appointment.
• Support you to return to activity and exercise.

Internal (vaginal or rectal) examination

This is where we check the inside of the vagina or rectum (bottom). Your physiotherapist may offer an internal examination to: 

• Check healing of any stitches or tears.
• Assess how your pelvic floor muscles are working (by doing “squeeze” and “relax” exercises).
• Look for any areas that may need further support or treatment.

Important information

• You do not have to have an internal exam.
• You can say no or change your mind at any time.
• Your physiotherapist will explain everything clearly and answer your questions.
• You can attend if you are on your period (menstruating).

Chaperones and support

You can have a chaperone during any physical exam if you would like. 

Chaperones can:

• Provide reassurance and support.
• Witness ongoing consent – that you agree to each part of the exam as it happens.
• Assist the physiotherapist if needed.

Chaperones can be formal or informal:

• A formal chaperone is a trained health professional or member of staff. Please tell us in advance if you would like a formal chaperone.
• An informal chaperone can be a partner, friend, or family member you can bring with you.

Attending with children

Babies and children are welcome. If you have an internal examination you may need to bring another adult to support or look after your child during this part of the session.

How to prepare

To get the most from your appointment we recommend you:

• Think about why you were referred.
• Consider what’s important to you about your symptoms.
• Bring a list of current medications.
• If you have bladder symptoms, please complete a bladder diary and bring it with you. Please tell us if you cannot print this yourself or need help understanding it. Some people prefer to write things down on paper or in a note on their mobile phone.
• Have a look at our information on the Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Service website including:
  • Information and videos in other languages.
  • A printable bladder diary on our What to expect page.

After the assessment

Your physiotherapist will discuss the findings and agree a template plan with you. This may include: 

• Advice and education.
• Exercises for recovery.

You will have time to ask questions.

If you need to cancel or reschedule

Your appointment is important. Please call 0300 555 0103 as soon as possible if you need to cancel.

• Note: If you cancel twice or don’t attend without telling us, you may be discharged from the service.

We look forward to seeing you and supporting your recovery. 

© North Bristol NHS Trust. This edition published January 2026. Review due January 2029. NBT003852