What to Expect At Your First Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Appointment
Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on strengthening, relaxing, and retraining the muscles of the pelvic floor in addition to the surrounding musculature. These muscles support vital functions like bladder and bowel control, sexual health, and core stability. When they become too weak, too tight, or uncoordinated, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and dysfunction in daily life.
Who Can Benefit from Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy isn’t just for postpartum women — people of all ages and genders can benefit. Common conditions treated include:
Urinary Issues — leakage (incontinence), urgency, or frequent urination
Pelvic Pain — pain in the lower abdomen, hips, or tailbone
Postpartum Recovery — healing after childbirth, diastasis recti, or C-section recovery
Bowel Dysfunction — constipation, fecal incontinence, or difficulty emptying
Pelvic Organ Prolapse — support for organs shifting downward
Pain with Intercourse — dyspareunia, vaginismus, or erectile dysfunction
What Happens at Your First Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Appointment?
At Chicago Mama Physical Therapy, your first visit typically includes a thorough evaluation of your medical history, posture, movement patterns, and pelvic floor function. With your consent, your therapist may assess internal and external pelvic muscles to identify any imbalances if appropriate.
Treatment may include:
Manual Therapy — hands-on techniques to release tight muscles and improve circulation
Exercise & Strengthening — core and pelvic floor exercises to restore function
Biofeedback — real-time monitoring to improve muscle control
Lifestyle & Postural Adjustments — guidance on habits that support pelvic health
We focus on treating the root cause — not just your symptoms. We take a whole-body approach, evaluating posture, breathing mechanics, hip mobility, and even how your feet strike the ground, because all of these can affect pelvic floor function.
👉 Curious if pelvic floor therapy can help you? Schedule your free discovery call today.
What Should You Wear and Bring?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely.
Please complete your intake forms in our patient portal before your visit so your physical therapist can review your medical history ahead of time.
You’re welcome to bring your baby! We have a bouncy chair, toys, and a stroller-accessible office. Mama can get therapy while baby gets tummy time — a win-win for everyone.
We’ve also created a tranquil treatment room designed to help you feel comfortable, relaxed, and supported during your visit. Our space is private and intentionally set up to support your healing journey.
Do You Have to Have an Internal Exam?
An internal exam is often the most accurate way to assess pelvic floor muscle tension and function, but it is never required. If you prefer to skip it, your therapist can use external assessments, breathing techniques, posture evaluation, and movement testing to guide treatment.
Your comfort and consent always come first.
What Happens After Your First Pelvic Floor Therapy Appointment?
After your evaluation, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your symptoms and goals. This may include home exercises and follow-up sessions designed to help you progress steadily and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions About First Pelvic Floor PT Visits
Is pelvic floor therapy painful?
Pelvic floor therapy should not be painful. The goal is to reduce discomfort, though you may feel mild pressure during assessment or manual therapy. Some soreness afterward is possible — similar to a deep tissue massage — but it should never feel painful.
How long is the first appointment?
Initial and follow-up sessions are one hour long. You’ll work one-on-one with your physical therapist the entire time — you will never be passed off to an aide.
How many sessions will I need?
Every person is different, but many patients start to notice symptom improvement within 4–6 sessions. Your therapist will discuss expectations and timeline in detail at your first appointment.
What to Expect at Chicago Mama Physical Therapy
Our goal is to empower you to take care of yourself and feel confident in your healing journey.
Here’s what you can expect:
One-on-one, hour-long sessions
A private, tranquil treatment room
Consistent care with the same therapist each visit
A specialist trained in pelvic health and pregnancy/postpartum care
A whole-body treatment approach tailored to your goals
A clear, supportive roadmap to help you succeed
Next Steps for Healing
If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here for you. Schedule your free discovery call to learn how pelvic floor therapy can support your healing journey.
If you’re in Barrington, IL or the surrounding Northwest suburbs, visit chicagomamapt.com/contact or call 312.554.5146.