Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

[JJones042023]

Hi all.

I've been dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome and painful menstrual periods for many years now. I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in 2022. Recently my doctor referred me for Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy. I'm nervous about trying a new treatment but hopeful it will help. I've never done a treatment anything like this so there are a lot of unknowns for me. Currently having trouble finding a Physical therapist. I've so far found offices that either don't specialize in the pelvic floor or they do specialize but don't accept any insurance. Paying out of pocket could be $175 each treatment which is a lot for me.

If you've ever had pelvic floor physical therapy would you mind sharing with me what to expect?

Thank you.

JJ

[CernCrystal]

I'm in England and I accessed the therapy through the Gynie department at my local hospital where they have specialist Gynie therapists.. It saved my life as I had PGAD and was not in a good place, and she diagnosed an overtightened pelvic floor. So my exercises were directed at "dekegeling" but yours may be different. Finally understanding how the nerves interconnect and how it all works down there was mindblowing and really needed. My condition is totally under control now I have the knowledge to manage it. Hope you get the help you need. I've also had IBS and manage that by controlling how many complex carbs I eat (very little tbh) and am also slowly losing weight without seeming to try. I know everyone is different with different triggers and gut biome, but gut health is really important for me. I've recently given mine a boost by eating more fermented foods (homemade kimchi is wonderful and so tasty) and have seen great improvements. Best of luck on your journey!

[HashtagNell]

I understand and empathise with the concern about not being able to pay, especially when you don't know what you're paying for. I'm in the UK too, like your other respondent. However, I did pay to see a gynaecologist once because I wasn't happy with my doctor's response and I knew I needed to talk to somebody. This did cost me more than I could easily afford. However, it gave me some clear ideas about possible future options, and from there I was able to move forward on my own. It seems to me that unless you see an appropriate physio, you won't know what sort of physical therapy might help. Your pelvic floor can need strengthening or it can be too tight (I think). Mine needed strengthening and I've been doing the work on that without any further assistance. But you've got to get an expert to guide you in the right direction, as it seems to me. So I think your first issue is to track down a good person and your next is to get the funds together for one proper consultation. After that you can decide what you need to do next and whether you need a course of treatment, and what you can do on your own, without paying anybody else. Very best of luck. It looks like your genes have dealt you a few unlucky blows all in all, and looking after your general health is also a priority.

[edythe in reply to HashtagNell]

I’m sorry to hear of your difficulties, JJones, and like the previous writers, I’m more familiar with the situation in the Uk but live in Germany. I also agree completely with them that pelvic floor physiotherapy carried out by an expert can be extremely helpful especially because, in my experience, these people often know more than doctors, set their patients at ease and are personally interested in them. So it would be well worth looking around until you get a good recommendation, doing some internet research, possibly find out from your medical insurance who they might suggest. I have made considerable progress because of the two physios who have treated me. Whoever you find will need to do an internal examination in order to find out what the problems are and whether she can help. If not she would probably be able to suggest where to go from there and/or suggest simple tools or exercises to do on your own. So do try it out if you possibly can.

[Johnsgirl]

as I’m in the UK I can’t give you specific answers sorry.

[Itzallgood1]

I had pelvic floor therapy. And like you insurance would cover it. In my area there was only one therapist who did make pelvic floor. She was nice to deal with but when I got the first bill I could not afford anymore. So am not any better because had to quit. I think I could've been helped but lack of funding had me stopping it. I know they put electrodes down the to try to get the muscle to tighten up.

[winwin23]

During your sessions, you can anticipate a comprehensive evaluation aimed at crafting a personalized treatment strategy. Your therapist will provide you with information about pelvic anatomy and suggest exercises that you can perform either at home or during in-clinic visits. They may also incorporate manual therapy and biofeedback techniques as part of the treatment plan. Your progress will be carefully monitored throughout the process. I understand your concerns about finding a therapist who is affordable, so I encourage you to continue your search for one that aligns with your budgetary constraints. Additionally, don't hesitate to communicate your financial worries with the therapist, as there may be options available to provide assistance if necessary.You can get more insights from this site physiodna.com/locations/phy...