FAQs
You’ve Got Questions – We’ve Got Answers
About Women's Health Physiotherapy
What is Womens Health Physiotherapy
It’s a specialised area of physiotherapy focusing on the health of the pelvis and abdominal area across all stages of a woman’s life, including pregnancy, postnatal recovery, perimenopause, and beyond. We assess, treat, and manage conditions like incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, and separation of abdominal muscles (Diastasis Recti).
What conditions can a Women's Health Physio help with?
We commonly treat:
- Urinary or Bowel Incontinence (leakage).
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse (a feeling of heaviness or bulge).
- Pelvic Pain (including pain with intercourse or chronic pelvic pain).
- Pregnancy-related back, hip, or pelvic girdle pain.
- Postnatal concerns, including abdominal muscle separation (Diastasis Recti).
- Return to exercise guidance after birth.
- Constipation and bowel dysfunction.
Postnatal / Pregnancy
Why is it important to see a Women's Health Physiotherapist during my pregnancy, and when should I book?
Seeing a Women’s Health Physiotherapist during pregnancy is vital for both preparation and postnatal recovery. Proactive assessment and education will keep you comfortable, strong, and prepared.
We recommend a series of targeted sessions:
- An Initial Assessment (ideally 12-20 Weeks) establishes safe exercise guidelines and helps manage early symptoms of back or pelvic girdle pain (PGP).
- Around 20 Weeks, we perform a more in-depth assessment of your pelvic floor and core function, and refine your exercise program.
- The late-pregnancy check at 34 Weeks focuses on labour and birth preparation, including teaching effective pushing techniques and perineal massage.
- A final check-in around 36 Weeks reinforces your birth strategies and outlines a clear plan for your immediate postnatal recovery (the ‘4th Trimester’).
We also welcome extra sessions as needed for the management of significant pain, such as pelvic girdle pain, or for tailored exercise adjustments throughout your pregnancy. This structured approach helps ensure a smoother recovery and return to function after birth.
When should I have a postnatal check-up?
We generally recommend an initial postnatal pelvic floor and abdominal check-up around 6 weeks postpartum, regardless of whether you had a vaginal or C-section birth. We can, however, see you earlier if you have specific concerns.
Can physiotherapy help me return to running or high-impact exercise?
Absolutely. We provide comprehensive assessments (often including a check of your pelvic floor and core) and a structured, safe rehabilitation program to ensure your body is ready for high-impact activities.
Your Appointment
What happens in an initial appointment?
We take a thorough and private history of your concerns, including your bladder, bowel, obstetric, gynaecological, and sexual history. We will then perform a physical assessment. This often includes an external assessment of your posture, movement, and core muscles, and, with your informed consent, an internal vaginal or rectal examination may be recommended to accurately assess your pelvic floor muscles.
Will I need an internal vaginal examination?
It depends on your symptoms and goals. An internal examination is often the most effective way to accurately assess the function, strength, and tone of the pelvic floor muscles. Your physiotherapist will always discuss the necessity, procedure, and seek your full consent. It is your choice, and if you decline, your physiotherapist can use other methods, though these may not provide the same level of information.
Is it safe to have an internal examination while pregnant?
Yes, it is generally safe, but your physiotherapist will discuss the timing and necessity based on your specific pregnancy and symptoms.
Should I reschedule if I have my period?
No, being on your period does not usually prevent an assessment or treatment. We are happy to proceed as normal, though you can choose to postpone an internal examination if you prefer.
What should I wear?
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing or active wear is best, as we may need to assess your lower back, hips, or abdomen.
Billing and Claims (Specific to NSW/Australia)
What do I need to bring?
- Any scans or correspondence you have from your GP, specialist or other health care provider.
- Wear loose comfortable clothing you can move easily in and bring any footwear you wear often such as work shoes, or sports shoes.
- For private patients that are covered by a Health Fund, please bring your current Health Fund card so that we can claim your rebate on the spot.
- If you are being treated under an EPC (Enhanced Primary Care) plan, you are required to bring your GP referral and the management plan that your GP or nurse would have provided to you. You will also need to bring with you your current medicare card so that the rebate can be claimed on the spot.
Can I claim a health fund rebate on the spot?
- We have full HICAPS available on site. Simply swipe your Health Fund card at time of treatment and it will provide you with an immediate rebate. You just need to pay the gap.
- EPC (medicare) rebates can also be provided on the spot. The rebate is approximately $53.80 per session which goes back into your bank account after paying the full treatment fee
what if I need to cancel my appointment?
We understand that sometimes you will need to cancel your appointment. We will do our best to reschedule your appointment at a time that suits you and your therapist.
Please be aware that we do have a cancellation policy. If you do not attend your appointment or do not provide sufficient notice a cancellation fee of 50% may be charged.
Can I Get a Medicare Rebate for Physiotherapy?
Yes — Medicare rebates are available for physiotherapy, but only if you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM/EPC) set up by your GP. Under this plan, eligible patients can access up to 5 allied health sessions per calendar year, which may include physiotherapy.
The rebate is a set Medicare amount (not the full cost of your session) and will reduce your out-of-pocket expense. Private health insurance cannot be used for the same appointment as a Medicare rebate.
If you think you may be eligible, speak with your GP about whether a CDM plan is suitable for you.
Can I Claim with My Private Health Fund for Physiotherapy?
Yes — if you have extras cover that includes physiotherapy, you can claim a rebate from your private health fund. The amount rebated will depend on your individual policy and level of cover.
At Physiozest, we offer on-the-spot claiming through HICAPS, so you only pay the gap at your appointment. If you prefer, you can also claim directly with your health fund after your visit.
Do You Accept Third-Party Billing?
Unfortunately, Physiozest does not provide services under Workers’ Compensation, Third Party (CTP) insurance claims, Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), or the NDIS.
All appointments are billed privately. If you have eligible cover through Medicare (CDM plan) or your private health fund, you may be able to claim a rebate to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
