What to wear to pelvic floor therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy appointments involve movement testing, health screening, and, in many cases, an internal pelvic floor exam. Knowing what to wear before you arrive helps you feel prepared and one less thing to stress about.
You do not need a special outfit. Comfortable, moveable clothing on both top and bottom is really all you need, and athletic or athleisure wear is what most of my patients reach for.
When an internal exam is appropriate and you choose to move forward with it, you will be covered with a real sheet in a private treatment room. Your comfort and modesty are the priority from the moment you walk in.
Seeking out pelvic floor physical therapy is a big step, and I'm super proud of you.
You may be wondering what to wear to your pelvic floor therapy appointment. I'll cover that in this blog.
What actually happens at your first appointment
If you've never been to pelvic therapy before, the first visit is very different from "typical" medical appointments. I wrote a whole blog on what exactly you can expect at your first pelvic therapy visit. Feel free to read that to get the full picture.
What I want you to know is that your pelvic floor therapy session is really focused on getting to know you, your entire medical history, and what exactly is going on, so that we can determine what the best next step is for you.
Here's a quick breakdown:
The initial visit includes a general physical assessment: health screening, strength and range of motion testing, and movement screening, followed by an internal pelvic floor exam if appropriate.
The internal exam is what sets pelvic health PT apart from general PT. It allows for precise assessment of pelvic floor muscle function, tension, and coordination that can't be evaluated externally. The exam involves a gloved, lubricated finger to assess the vaginal canal (and sometimes rectum, depending on your condition and consent). It's nothing like an OB/GYN visit. No speculum, private treatment room, real bedsheets.
During the exam, I will evaluate muscle strength, resting tone, tenderness or trigger points, and your ability to contract and relax voluntarily, among many other things.
Consent is ongoing throughout; you can stop at any time or skip the internal exam entirely, and most people find it far less uncomfortable than they anticipated.
What to wear on top
You can truly wear whatever you'd like for a shirt. Clothing choices are always up to you, your comfort, and what you feel best in!
The only suggestion that I would have is that you should wear comfortable clothes that are easy to move in. We'll do some movement testing during the exam, and my goal is to always get you back to the activities you love, so movement is key. Restrictive clothing may limit the motions that I can test and what we can work on.
If you're anything like me, you'll need to decide between a "real bra" and a sports bra (I get it!). I personally would choose the athlesiure outfit over anything else, but as long as you can move your arms overhead and are comfortable doing so in what you're wearing, we're golden!
What to wear on the bottom
Again, your choice! It's best to wear something you can move in, as mentioned above. Athlesure is a favorite amongst my patients.
I'd choose something you don't mind removing, should an internal assessment be recommended/you decide to move forward with the internal exam.
Unlike a typical gynecological exam, you'll be undressing and utilizing a real sheet (they're comfy! No paper sheets and gowns here) to cover up during the exam.
After we do your general exam, I'll step out of the room to allow you to undress for the internal exam. You're never fully exposed, and preserving your modesty is of the utmost importance.
So, what you wear for pants/shorts is totally up to you, but I'd choose something moveable.
Where to find pelvic floor therapy in Durham
If you are local to the Durham, NC area, I'd love to work with you inside my pelvic health physical therapy clinic. My clinic specializes in pelvic health and pelvic health treatment. Not just a part of what I do, but what I specifically do.
Pelvic floor PT can be intimidating, and pelvic floor conditions can feel embarrassing, hard, lonely, and frustrating. I'd love to help you overcome the pelvic concerns you have and get you back to feeling 100%.
If you’re ready to get started, please request an appointment. I'd love to help you.
