What to Expect at Your First Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Appointment

Taking the first step toward pelvic floor health can feel overwhelming. At Healing Space PT, we believe that understanding what to expect can help ease anxiety and prepare you for a positive experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your first pelvic floor physical therapy appointment with Dr. Mehreen Akhtar PT, DPT, PRPC.

Why Understanding the Process Matters

Many people delay seeking pelvic floor physical therapy due to uncertainty, embarrassment, or anxiety about the process. Know that these feelings are completely normal. Our team at HealingSpacePT is dedicated to creating a comfortable, respectful environment where you can address intimate health concerns with confidence.

Before Your Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Appointment

Preparation Tips

To make the most of your first appointment:

• Come prepared with questions: Write down any questions or concerns ahead of time

• Complete paperwork ahead of time: We'll email you intake forms that you can fill out in the privacy of your home

During Your First Appointment

Comprehensive Consultation

The session begins with an in-depth discussion where Dr. Akhtar will:

• Listen to your complete health history and specific concerns

• Understand how your symptoms affect your daily activities and quality of life

• Discuss your personal goals for treatment

• Answer any questions you may have

Thorough Physical Assessment

Following the consultation, Dr. Akhtar will conduct a detailed external assessment that includes:

• Comprehensive movement analysis: Evaluating how your body moves as a whole system

• External assessment: Examining your spine, hip, and pelvic movement

• Pelvic anatomy and function review: Understanding the foundations of pelvic health

• Targeted treatment and education: Focusing on specific areas identified during assessment

It's important to note that internal pelvic floor examinations are reserved for follow-up sessions only. This approach allows us to build trust and rapport before proceeding with more intimate assessments, and internal examinations will only be performed if necessary for your specific condition.

A Note About Internal Examinations

Many people have concerns about internal examinations in pelvic floor PT. At Healing Space PT:

• Trust comes first: Internal examinations are never performed during your first visit

• Follow-up sessions only: We reserve these assessments for later appointments after establishing rapport

• Only when necessary: Internal exams are only conducted if essential for your specific condition

• Always optional: You maintain complete control over your treatment decisions

• Clear communication: Dr. Akhtar will thoroughly explain the purpose and process before proceeding

Treatment Plan Discussion

The final part of your first appointment involves:

• Reviewing our findings with you in clear, understandable terms

• Developing initial treatment goals based on your priorities

• Outlining a proposed treatment plan and schedule

• Teaching you any initial exercises or techniques to begin at home

After Your Appointment

After your first visit, you can expect:

• A follow-up email summarizing key points and home exercises

• A clear schedule for future appointments

• Resources related to your specific condition

• Direct contact information for any questions that arise

Taking the First Step

The most challenging part of pelvic floor physical therapy is often making that first appointment. Know that by taking this step, you're already on the path to improvement.

Ready to begin your healing journey? Contact Healing Space PT today to schedule your complimentary 15-minute consultation or your initial evaluation with Dr. Mehreen Akhtar. Dr. Akhtar is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) and a Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certified (PRPC) specialist who is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

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Healing Space PT offers specialized pelvic health physical therapy in the Princeton area with Dr. Mehreen Akhtar PT, DPT, PRPC. Our cash-based model ensures you receive one-on-one care and personalized treatment without insurance limitations. Visit HealingSpacePT.com to learn more and schedule your free 15-minute consultation.