What is a pelvic health physio?
A pelvic health physiotherapist has specialist training in working with a whole range of pelvic and pelvic floor muscle problems- and we don’t mean just teaching you how to do “Kegels”. Kathryn, our pelvic health physio, is qualified to discuss everything from your first period through young adulthood, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and beyond. She can chat through concerns you may have with your bladder such as urgency, leaking, chronic UTI’s and pain; your bowel health; (think constipation or painful poos); painful periods, endometriosis or PCOS; painful sex: vaginismus, vulvodynia, and problems with arousal.
What happens at a pelvic health physio appointment?
Unlike a face-to-face physio appointment, you won’t be getting your kit off in front of Kathryn. The purpose of our appointments is to provide a safe space for you to ask questions about your pelvic health and work through your symptoms together. Our goal is to educate and reassure you about your symptoms and talk through simple strategies on how to improve your discomfort or pain from home. These physio sessions are not a substitute for a clinical exam nor intended to give a diagnosis- but we will deep dive into your concerns and map a way forward.
Is this just for postpartum pelvic issues?
Nope! There is a range of pelvic health issues that can affect us all at any age. Many even start before babies come along. These include painful bladder syndrome, chronic UTI’s, poop problems, tight pelvic floor muscles, painful sex, vaginismus, vulvodynia and painful periods.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Our physiotherapist may suggest exercises and techniques to try, so a notebook may come in handy.
Kathryn is not a medical doctor. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists in the UK. Kathryn earned her degree in the United States and has worked in the UK for the last decade. She has advanced specialisations in pelvic health and is a certified women’s health coach.
Can I talk to your physio about sexual trauma?
While you can tell Kathryn about any previous or ongoing sexual trauma you have experienced in relation to your pelvic issues, she is not a trained therapist or counsellor so cannot directly work through this with you. If you have previously received, or are currently undergoing psychosexual therapy or counselling to deal with trauma, Kathryn may still be able to provide advice to help you with any present questions and concerns about your pelvic health.
Is everything discussed confidential?
Yes, everything you discuss with Kathryn is confidential.
Do you offer phone calls?
Our sessions are best held over Zoom as Kathryn will often use pictures and anatomical models to talk through your concerns. She finds the visual aids particularly useful when discussing the vulva and pelvic floor.