Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at my first appointment?Your initial appointment is a comprehensive 55min assessment. We will take the time to understand your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, goals, and any previous investigations or treatments. Depending on your concerns, your physiotherapist will carry out a thorough physical assessment and explain their clinical findings before discussing an individualised treatment plan.
Where appropriate, treatment may begin during your first appointment. You will leave with a clear understanding of your condition, recommendations for your recovery, and the next steps in your rehabilitation.
Do I need an internal examination?Not necessarily. An internal pelvic floor examination is often considered the gold standard for assessing pelvic floor muscle function and may provide valuable clinical information. However, it is only performed where clinically appropriate and with your full informed consent.
Your physiotherapist will explain why an internal examination may be beneficial, answer any questions you may have, and discuss alternative assessment options where appropriate. You are always in control and can decline or stop the examination at any time without affecting your care.
You or your physiotherapist might opt for an Ultrasound assessment of your pelvic floor. This is an external, non invasive assessment to look at coordination or relaxation of your pelvic floor.
Can I claim through private medical insurance?We do not bill private medical insurance providers directly. However, depending on your policy, you may be able to reclaim all or part of your appointment fee from your insurer.
If you wish to claim, we are happy to provide an itemised invoice following your appointment. Any reimbursement is entirely at the discretion of your insurance provider, and we are unable to guarantee that your claim will be accepted.
We recommend contacting your insurer before your appointment to confirm your level of cover, whether a GP or consultant referral is required, and whether pre-authorisation is needed.
How many sessions will I need?The number of appointments varies depending on your condition, goals, and individual progress. Some patients require only one or two appointments for assessment, education, and self-management, while others benefit from a structured rehabilitation programme over several weeks or months.
Following your initial assessment, your physiotherapist will discuss your personalised treatment plan and provide a recommended rehabilitation schedule tailored to your needs.
What should I wear?Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. Depending on the area being assessed, you may be asked to expose part of the body, such as your back, hip, abdomen, or leg. Shorts or loose-fitting clothing you could wear to the the gym can be helpful for musculoskeletal assessments.
For pelvic health appointments, you do not need to do anything differently. Towels are available and every effort is made to ensure you feel comfortable, respected, and at ease throughout your appointment.
What is your cancellation policy?Appointments may be cancelled or rescheduled free of charge with at least 48 hours’ notice.
Appointments cancelled, rescheduled, or missed with less than 48 hours’ notice will be charged the full appointment fee. This policy allows us to offer appointment availability to other patients who may be waiting for care.
If exceptional circumstances arise, please contact us as soon as possible. Any waiver of cancellation fees is at the discretion of The Pelvic Health Centre.