What happens at your first pelvic floor physical therapy appointment?
If you’re feeling a little nervous about your first pelvic floor therapy appointment, you’re definitely not alone!
Pelvic health can feel like an unfamiliar or even intimidating topic, especially if you’ve never worked with a pelvic floor physical therapist before.
My biggest goal is to create a comfortable, supportive environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout your care.
Your first visit at Rausch Physical Therapy is a full 60-minute evaluation, giving us time to understand your concerns and create a plan that works for you.
We’ll start by talking about your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and what you’re hoping to achieve through physical therapy.
From there, we’ll complete a physical assessment based on your individual needs. This may include looking at your posture, breathing patterns, hip and low back mobility, abdominal wall, core coordination, and pelvic floor function.
We’ll also discuss treatment options and develop a personalized plan to help you work toward your goals.
Do I have to have an internal pelvic floor examination?
Absolutely not!
An internal pelvic floor examination can provide valuable information about muscle strength, coordination, tension, and relaxation, but it is never mandatory.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is about working with your body, not pushing you into anything you’re uncomfortable with.
If an internal examination is recommended, your therapist will explain what it involves, why it may be helpful, and answer any questions you have beforehand.
You always have the option to decline, postpone, or stop the examination at any time.
And importantly, there is still plenty we can assess and work on without performing an internal examination.
Your comfort, consent, and sense of safety are priorities throughout the entire process.
Is pelvic floor therapy different for men?
The overall approach is very similar!
Pelvic floor dysfunction can affect people of all genders, and men can experience many of the same concerns, including pelvic pain, urinary leakage, constipation, and sexual dysfunction.
For men, an internal pelvic floor assessment, when indicated and agreed upon, is performed rectally.
As with all pelvic floor care, this is optional and only performed with informed consent.
Can I receive pelvic floor therapy while pregnant?
Yes!
Pelvic floor physical therapy can be a wonderful resource during pregnancy, whether you’re experiencing pelvic pain, bladder leakage, pressure, or simply want to prepare your body for childbirth.
Treatment may include breathing techniques, pelvic floor coordination, mobility exercises, core strengthening, and strategies for managing pregnancy-related discomfort.
If an internal pelvic floor assessment is being considered, we ask that you bring clearance from your prenatal healthcare provider.
Our goal is to support you through pregnancy with safe, individualized care that helps you feel more comfortable and confident.
Related pages: Pelvic floor physical therapy · Urinary incontinence · Postpartum · After prostate surgery
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Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a support person to my appointment?
Of course!
You’re welcome to bring a partner, friend, or family member if that helps you feel more comfortable.
You may also request a chaperone for your examination.
Your preferences may change from visit to visit, and that’s completely okay. We encourage open communication so your treatment experience feels comfortable and collaborative.
What should I bring to my first pelvic floor appointment?
We recommend bringing:
- Photo ID and insurance information
- Any relevant referrals or medical records
- Surgical reports or imaging, if applicable
- A list of current medications
- Comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily
Please plan to arrive approximately 10 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
It may also be helpful to think about when your symptoms occur, what makes them better or worse, and what activities you’re hoping to return to.
Do I need a prescription to start pelvic floor physical therapy?
In California, most patients can begin physical therapy without a physician referral under direct-access regulations.
Medicare patients should confirm referral requirements before their first appointment.
Under California law, physician involvement is required after 45 days or 12 visits, whichever occurs first, for patients receiving treatment under direct access.
Our team can help answer questions about scheduling and insurance requirements.
How many pelvic floor therapy visits will I need?
Every person and every pelvic floor is different!
Some symptoms respond quickly to treatment, while others require more time and consistency.
Your treatment plan will depend on your symptoms, medical history, goals, and how your body responds to rehabilitation.
At your initial evaluation, we’ll discuss recommended visit frequency, home exercises, and how we’ll measure progress along the way.
Treatment may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, breathing techniques, biofeedback, pelvic floor coordination, and nervous system regulation.
The goal is to give you the tools and understanding to manage your symptoms confidently, both during therapy and beyond.
How much does pelvic floor physical therapy cost?
Cash-pay pelvic floor physical therapy at Rausch PT is $249 per 60-minute session.
Insurance may cover a portion of treatment, and HSA and FSA cards are accepted.
For more information or to schedule an initial evaluation, contact Rausch Physical Therapy at (949) 276-5401.
You deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and supported in your body. Pelvic floor physical therapy can be a great first step toward getting there!
