Osteopath in Woonona | Align Health Therapies

Women's & Pelvic Health consultations

Did you know our Osteopath Lauren has completed additional training in the assessment and treatment of pelvic health complaints?

A pelvic health consultation combines the classic experience and philosophy of osteopathy with additional focus in the specific treatment of the pelvis and pelvic organs.

This includes:

Pregnancy and Postpartum assessment
Pelvic floor muscle assessment
Bladder and incontinence issues
Bowel and constipation issues
Coccyx pain
Pelvic pain including pain with intercourse

If have any questions about these services, please contact us - we would love to tell you all about it!

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Internal Techniques

a woman sitting at a desk talking to another woman

When would an internal technique be indicated?

In some conditions or presentations internal assessment and techniques may be indicated. In females, or those born with a vagina, these techniques allow for assessment of the uterus, cervix, pelvic floor muscles, perineum, urethra, bladder, ligaments and connective tissues of the region, as well as assessment and treatment for scars from episiotomies or tears.

Sometimes it is easier or more specific to assess structure and function as well as treat the pelvic structures with an internal contact.

It is important to remember that you have a choice about your treatment, and that if at any time you are uncomfortable, whether it is with discussing a subject, or with a technique, you can choose to stop.

Examination and treatment may be indicated for:

Pregnancy to address any issues during pregnancy (eg incontinence or pain)
Pregnancy in preparation for labour and delivery
Postpartum checks
Dysmenorrhea (period pain)
Urinary incontinence
Pelvic organ prolapse
Pudendal nerve pain
Dyspareunia (painful sex)
Pelvic floor pain
Constipation
Coccyx pain

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What does it involve?

For per vaginal techniques you will be asked to lie on your back or on your side. You will be asked to remove your underwear and cover yourself with a sheet. The osteopath will insert one to two gloved fingers into the vagina for the examination and treatment. During the examination and treatment, you will remain covered with a sheet.

If you are uncomfortable at any stage the treatment can be stopped.

The techniques used are the same as we use in regular treatment, it just allows for better contact of tissues. Techniques include inhibition of tight muscles, unwinding of fascial tensions, education on contraction or relaxation of muscles as well as working on organ and tissues balance.

What else?

You will be asked to sign a consent form before any examination and treatment is undertaken. You have the option of having a chaperone present, either from the practice or a companion you wish to bring in. If you would like a chaperone for your treatment, please let us know.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask - we will be happy that you have!

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that talking about and addressing pelvic floor and pelvic health concerns can be challenging, and we want to make the process as smooth as possible.

Below are some common questions people have about a pelvic health consultations which we hope will answer questions you may have.

What is the difference between general osteopathic treatment and an osteopathic pelvic health consultation?

A pelvic health consultation combines the classic experience and philosophy of osteopathy, combined with additional focus in the specific treatment of the pelvis and pelvic organs. Osteopaths offering this service have completed further training in complaints and conditions specific to pelvic organs and the pelvic floor including history taking, examination, treatment and management advice.
What does a pelvic health appointment involve?

Initially, you and the osteopath will discuss the nature and symptoms related to your presenting complaint. This will likely include questions about bladder habits, bowel movements, sexual health as well as symptoms related to other body areas such as your jaw, neck, back and feet. This will help to guide the assessments your osteopath may decide are appropriate to determine a diagnosis and management options. This assessment may include standing assessments, functional movement screens, palpation of the pelvis, external assessment of the perineum and internal assessment of the pelvic floor. The osteopath will then be able to provide information on diagnosis as well as treatment and management options.
Do I have to have an internal assessment?

No, while internal assessments are a great way to identify issues with the pelvic floor or pelvic organs there are other ways to assess the area. Internal assessments are always provided on your terms, in a way that suits you and you can change your mind at any point of the consultation. Internal assessments are not always accessible to everyone for a variety of reasons, we are here to support you the best way we can through your journey. You can work with your osteopath to find ways to make the experience as comfortable and supportive as possible.
Do you use a speculum?

No, assessment of the external genitalia or pelvic floor are completed with digital (finger) palpation.
Does it hurt?

As with general osteopathic assessment and treatment, with your consent, we may assess areas that are tender or painful on palpation to help us determine the nature of your complaint. However, this should only be mild to moderately tender/uncomfortable and if you are experiencing pain that either you or your practitioner is not comfortable with the examination will stop in order to reassess the situation. If you wish to stop any examination or treatment at any time, you only need to tell your osteopath and they will stop - no questions asked and no judgements.
Do I have to get naked?

No, a pelvic health assessment does not require you to take all your clothes off. If you are comfortable, the osteopath will ask you to dress down your bottom half including the removal of underwear. You can continue to wear bras and tops throughout the assessment and we have gowns at our clinic if that would make you feel more comfortable. We also use sheets and towels for draping to maintain your comfort and modesty throughout. We also endeavour to make our space feel private and free from interruption as possible.
What should I wear?

Comfortable loose fitting clothing is preferable, gym wear or loungewear made of thin material is best. If an internal assessment is performed you will be asked to remove underwear, we also have gowns available if the clothing you have does not suit the treatment type.
Can I bring someone?

Yes, if you would like to have someone come with you as a support person or you would like a chaperone for your treatment, please let us know. It is important to us that we can make the space as safe as possible physically and emotionally. If at any point you become uncomfortable with that person in the room, you can ask them to leave at any time.
Do I need to reschedule if I am on my period?

Our practitioners are comfortable to treat clients at all stages of their life and cycle, if you are comfortable to be assessed and treated during your period that is a personal choice. Some people experience heightened sensitivity or general discomfort during their period that can make treatment more uncomfortable, but this is dependent on the individual. If you are not comfortable to be treated internally during your period, we understand and can discuss alternative options such as rescheduling.