What to Expect in a Pelvic Floor Evaluation with Renew Health in Western MA?

“There is PT for…that?!” People typically have heard of physical therapy in various settings and for various body parts. A lot of our community in East Longmeadow, MA and the surrounding Western MA area have never heard of pelvic floor physical therapy before. And, we can’t blame them.

Pelvic floor therapy is an area of specialty that is not talked about enough! We often joke in our practice that we’re ready to discuss pelvic health with anyone willing to lend an ear!

Initial Consultation: 

Your first session is all about connection and understanding—not just your symptoms, but you as a whole person.

We take time to get to know your story, your goals, and what matters most to you. This comprehensive conversation happens in a private, supportive setting, where you’re encouraged to share only what you feel comfortable with, at your own pace.

We may talk about areas such as:

• Urinary and bowel habits

• Sexual health and wellness

• Pain experiences (past or present)

• Gynecological history or transitions

• Daily routines, activities, and movement

• Birth and postpartum experiences, if relevant

Every question we ask is optional, and you're always in control of the conversation. We’re here to listen without judgment, create space for your voice, and collaborate on a care plan that feels safe, empowering, and aligned with your values.

External Assessment: 

After we’ve had a chance to connect and understand your story, we may move into a gentle, external physical assessment. This part of the evaluation is all about noticing how your body moves, holds tension, and supports you during your everyday activities.

Everything we do will be explained in advance, and your comfort and consent guide the entire process. You’re encouraged to ask questions, pause at any time, or opt out of anything that doesn’t feel right for you.

Depending on your goals and comfort level, we may explore:

• How your posture and pelvic alignment relate to your symptoms

• How you move during daily tasks like lifting, bending, or caring for others

• The abdominal wall (including scars, sensitivity, or diastasis recti)

• Breathing patterns and how you manage pressure through your core

• Gentle assessment of strength, coordination, and endurance in the hips, glutes, lower back, and abdominals

• Observing pelvic floor engagement externally (no internal contact at this stage)

• Foundational movement patterns like hinging, squatting, reaching, or pulling

This whole-body lens helps us understand how everything is connected—and how we can best support you, functionally and holistically.

Internal Assessment (only if you choose): 

An internal pelvic floor assessment is always optional and done only with your full, informed consent. We recognize that for many people, this part of the evaluation may bring up discomfort or past experiences—and we’re here to support you in whatever decision feels best for your body and your healing.

If you choose to proceed, we’ll walk you through each step beforehand, check in frequently, and stop at any time if you wish.

Unlike a gynecological exam, this assessment is done without stirrups or speculums. With a gloved and lubricated finger, we may gently assess the vaginal or rectal canal to better understand:

• Muscle tension and tone

• Strength and coordination

• Areas of tenderness or overactivity

• How your pelvic floor engages and relaxes

Our goal is to ensure this experience feels safe, respectful, and empowering—always led by your comfort, your voice, and your choice.

Personalized Education & Home Programming That Meets You Where You Are

After your assessment, we shift our focus to education and empowerment. We want you to leave feeling not only seen and supported—but also equipped with tools that make sense for your body and your learning style.

We create custom home programs for each individual, often including video demonstrations recorded specifically for you. These are designed to be easy to follow and integrate into your daily routine.

But we also recognize that everyone learns differently—so whether you prefer printed instructions, hands-on guidance, video walkthroughs, or audio reminders, we’re here to adapt. We’ll collaborate with you to provide your home program in a way that’s most accessible and supportive for you.

You’ll also receive a clear treatment plan based on our three-step method—Length → Strength → Function—a proven process that has helped thousands of patients regain confidence and ease in their bodies.

We’ll schedule your follow-up sessions with flexibility, track your progress together, and adjust as needed to make sure your care continues to feel aligned, doable, and effective.

Ready to Take Control of Your Pelvic Health?

At Renew Health in East Longmeadow, MA, we specialize in helping individuals overcome pelvic floor dysfunction by addressing the root causes, restoring muscle balance, and providing expert guidance on movement, relaxation, and lifelong pelvic health--so you can move with confidence, feel comfortable in your body, and regain control of your well-being.

Curious if pelvic floor therapy is right for you? Fill out our contact form to chat with one of our pelvic health specialists!

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📍 Renew Health – East Longmeadow, MA