Women's Health Physiotherapy: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Women's Health Physiotherapy?
A physiotherapist, also called a physical therapist, provides women's health physiotherapy. For pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic floor muscle training is usually done with a specialist women's health physiotherapist. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Physiotherapy is a treatment that can ease pain and improve movement if you have an injury, illness or disability. It uses exercise, massage and other techniques. People of all ages can have it. It is used for problems during or after pregnancy, such as pelvic pain and leaking pee or poo (incontinence). Here we focus on care for the pelvic floor and for problems around pregnancy.
Why a doctor might recommend it
It may help with these problems.
- Pelvic pain and leaking pee or poo during or after pregnancy.
- Pelvic organ prolapse, which is when your womb, bladder or bowel bulge into the vagina.
- Leaking urine or trouble with bowel control, which can happen after pregnancy and childbirth.
Prolapse can happen when the pelvic floor muscles weaken. It is common in women over 50.
How to prepare
These steps can help you get ready.
- You can talk with a doctor about whether physiotherapy might help.
- See a doctor if you have a lump in or around your vagina.
- A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine you.
What happens during it
At the first appointment, the physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, medical history and lifestyle. They may also feel the affected area and check things like your strength and balance. Some physiotherapists offer phone or video visits.
Treatment may include the following.
- Exercises to help your joints move and strengthen your muscles.
- Manual therapy, where the physiotherapist uses their hands to massage and help movement.
- Advice about how to manage your symptoms.
A Kegel exercise is like pretending you are urinating and then holding it. You tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 3 to 5 seconds. Then you relax the muscles for 3 to 5 seconds. Breathe deeply and relax your body. You can do them any time you are sitting or lying down.
Recovery
After each session, you may be given some exercises to do at home before your next appointment. It is important to do them often to help your recovery. It may take several months for incontinence to lessen once you start Kegel exercises. Incontinence will return if you stop doing these exercises. Keep doing the exercises, but do not increase how many you do. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or discomfort lasting two minutes or more, fainting, coughing up or vomiting blood, or bleeding that will not stop.
Risks and side effects
Overdoing Kegel exercises can lead to straining when you urinate or move your bowels. In women, doing Kegel exercises incorrectly or with too much force may cause vaginal muscles to tighten too much. This can cause pain during sexual intercourse.
Who performs it
You may be referred to a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic floor exercises.
Common questions
What problems can women's health physiotherapy help with?
It can help with problems during or after pregnancy, such as pelvic pain and leaking pee or poo (incontinence). It is also a treatment option for pelvic organ prolapse.
What are Kegel exercises?
Kegel exercises are exercises that make the pelvic floor muscles stronger. They can help both men and women who have problems with urine leakage or bowel control.
How do I know I am doing Kegel exercises the right way?
If you feel your pelvic floor muscles tighten and move up, you have done the exercise right. If you are not sure, ask your provider to check.
How long do Kegel exercises take to work?
It may take several months for incontinence to lessen once you start doing them. Incontinence will return if you stop.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. You can talk with a doctor about whether physiotherapy might help. A doctor can also examine you.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
