What to Expect During a Pelvic Health Assessment
We begin by explaining the assessment process. You'll have time to ask questions and decide if you wish to proceed with examination and treatment. Your consent is required before proceeding with any part of the assessment.
External Assessment
We examine your perineum, checking for scars and tissue tension
We assess how well you can engage, release, and lengthen your pelvic floor muscles
Measurements may be taken to evaluate potential childbirth tear risks
Internal Assessment (With Your Consent Only)
Involves inserting one or sometimes two gloved fingers into the vagina
We assesses pelvic floor muscle tone, function, and coordination
Usually performed in semi-reclined position, but can be done lying on your side
Treatment Techniques
Gentle internal techniques may be used to release tension and improve function
We assess perineal flexibility and teach techniques to release tension in this area
You'll learn about your pelvic anatomy and how to manage different sensations during labor
Many of our patients tell us they are surprised at how much they learned about their pelvic floor during a pelvic health assessment.
Your comfort is our highest priority. We want you to feel completely at ease and empowered to share your feelings or concerns at any moment.
If anything feels uncomfortable or unsettling, we warmly welcome your thoughts and feedback. We also want you to know that you can ask questions throughout the appointment and stop the examination at any time. We want you to leave feeling that your pelvic health examination was a helpful experience, as this is such an important, and often overlooked, part of our body.
If you have more questions, please contact us, or ask your osteopath at your next appointment.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no practitioner/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this blog or materials linked from this blog is at the user's own risk. The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard, or delay in obtaining, medical advice for any medical condition they may have, and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions.