• What is pelvic floor physical therapy?:
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. Treatment may include education, manual therapy, movement retraining, breath work, and strength or relaxation exercises to improve function and reduce symptoms.
• Who can benefit from pelvic floor therapy?:
  • Pelvic floor therapy can help people of all genders and ages. It is commonly recommended for individuals experiencing pelvic pain, bladder or bowel leakage, prolapse, pain with intercourse, pregnancy or postpartum concerns, post-surgical recovery, or difficulty with core stability and movement.
• Do I need a referral to start pelvic floor therapy?:
  • A referral is not required to begin physical therapy. However, we believe it is best to work as part of a larger medical team when it comes to pelvic floor problems. For certain conditions, we may ask you to see your doctor before coming to therapy. We are happy to answer any questions to determine what is best for your care.
• What happens during the first appointment?:
  • Your initial visit includes a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, posture, movement patterns, breathing, and core function. If appropriate and with your consent, this may include an internal pelvic floor muscle assessment. The evaluation is always patient-centered, and nothing is done without your understanding and permission.
• Is an internal exam required?:
  • No. An internal exam can be a helpful assessment tool, but it is never required. Your comfort and sense of safety are priorities, and treatment plans are always adapted to your preferences and needs.
• Is pelvic floor therapy painful?:
  • Pelvic floor therapy should not be painful, though you may experience mild discomfort at times, especially when working with sensitive tissues. Treatment is always guided by your tolerance, and we adjust techniques to ensure care remains safe, respectful, and effective.

• How many sessions will I need?:
  • The number of visits varies depending on your symptoms, goals, and how your body responds to treatment. Some people notice improvement within a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of care. Your therapist will discuss expectations and progress with you along the way.
• Can pelvic floor therapy help even if I’ve had symptoms for years?:
  • Yes. Many people seek pelvic floor therapy after living with symptoms for months or even years. While every body is different, meaningful improvement is possible at any stage, and treatment is tailored to your history and current goals.
• Is pelvic floor therapy only for postpartum patients?:
  • No. While pelvic floor therapy is highly beneficial during pregnancy and postpartum, it also helps individuals who have never been pregnant, those in perimenopause or menopause, athletes, and people recovering from surgery or managing chronic pelvic conditions.
• What should I wear to my appointment?:
  • Wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement. You do not need to wear anything specific, and your therapist will guide you if any adjustments are needed during your session.
• How is pelvic floor therapy different from doing Kegels?:
  • Pelvic floor therapy is much more than Kegels. In fact, some conditions require relaxation and coordination rather than strengthening. Therapy focuses on how the pelvic floor works with breathing, posture, and movement to support your whole body.
• Do you treat men?:
  • Yes! Men have pelvic floors too! Men seek pelvic floor physical therapy for a variety of concerns, including urinary leakage or urgency, difficulty emptying the bladder, pelvic or testicular pain, and bowel dysfunction such as constipation or straining. Pelvic floor therapy is also commonly used to support recovery after prostate or pelvic surgery, address erectile dysfunction or pain with sexual activity, and improve core strength and pelvic stability. Many men also pursue care for persistent pain with sitting or cycling, low back pain, or symptoms related to overactive or overly tense pelvic floor muscles.

Trauma-Informed Care:

At Tamarack, we understand that trauma comes in many forms—from major life-altering events to the everyday experiences that quietly shape how we move, feel, and respond to the world. Trauma doesn’t just live in the mind; it shows up in the body. Our trauma-informed care honors this connection by creating a safe, supportive space where your nervous system can begin to settle. Using gentle, body-based techniques that emphasize breath, awareness, and mindful movement, we help guide your body out of fight, flight, or freeze and into a state of rest and healing. Our goal is to help your brain and body reconnect and remember that they are working together. When we slow down and listen to what your body needs to feel safe, meaningful and lasting progress becomes possible—so you can return to a life that feels grounded, resilient, and fully yours. If you are considering therapy for pain or symptoms related to a past traumatic experience, you are welcome to reach out at any time. We prioritize safety, consent, and patient choice, and we are happy to discuss your individual needs, boundaries, and preferences in advance. Our goal is to create a therapeutic experience that feels respectful, supportive, and empowering at every step.