Find pelvic floor physiotherapy clinics in Vancouver and BC. Compare costs, understand what to expect, and learn how to access care without a referral.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Vancouver: Clinics, Costs & What to Expect in 2026

Last Updated: May 2026

Quick Answer

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on assessing and treating the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form the base of your pelvis. This type of therapy helps people experiencing urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, and postpartum recovery challenges. In Vancouver and across BC, you can expect to pay between $150 and $200 for an initial assessment and $100 to $160 for follow-up sessions, with most extended health plans providing coverage when treatment is provided by a registered physiotherapist.

What Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized area of rehabilitation that focuses specifically on the group of muscles, ligaments, nerves, and connective tissues that span the bottom of the pelvis. These structures, often described as forming a "hammock" or "bowl" shape, play a crucial role in supporting your internal organs, controlling bladder and bowel function, contributing to sexual health, and providing core stability.

The pelvic floor muscles attach from your pubic bone at the front to your tailbone at the back and connect to your sit bones on either side. When these muscles function properly, most people never give them a second thought. However, when dysfunction occurs, the impact on daily life can be significant and often deeply personal.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in two primary ways: the muscles may become too weak (hypotonic) or too tight (hypertonic). Weakness often leads to issues like urinary leakage, difficulty controlling gas, or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region. Conversely, overly tight muscles can cause pelvic pain, painful intercourse, difficulty emptying the bladder completely, and chronic constipation.

Several factors can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction:

Pregnancy and childbirth place significant strain on pelvic floor muscles. The weight of a growing baby, hormonal changes that soften tissues, and the physical process of delivery (whether vaginal or cesarean) can all affect pelvic floor function.

Aging and hormonal changes naturally affect muscle tone and tissue elasticity throughout the body, including the pelvic floor. The decline in estrogen during menopause can contribute to tissue thinning and reduced muscle strength.

Chronic constipation and straining create repeated downward pressure on the pelvic floor, which can weaken these muscles over time.

High-impact activities and heavy lifting, particularly without proper core engagement, can stress the pelvic floor.

Surgery in the pelvic region, including hysterectomy, prostatectomy, or colorectal procedures, may affect pelvic floor function during recovery and beyond.

Chronic coughing from conditions like asthma or smoking creates repeated downward pressure similar to straining.

Trauma, including physical injuries and sexual trauma, can lead to chronic tension patterns in the pelvic floor muscles.

A pelvic floor physiotherapist has advanced training to assess these structures and develop individualized treatment plans. Treatment approaches may include manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercises, biofeedback training, electrical stimulation, education about bladder and bowel habits, and lifestyle modifications.

Who Needs Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can benefit a wide range of individuals experiencing various conditions. While this specialty has traditionally been associated with women's health, people of all genders and ages can benefit from this specialized care.

Postpartum Recovery

The journey through pregnancy and childbirth represents one of the most significant physical transformations the human body experiences. By six weeks postpartum, many people are cleared for regular activities at their routine checkup, yet physical symptoms often persist well beyond this timeframe.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy for postpartum recovery addresses common concerns including:

Urinary leakage when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising
Difficulty controlling gas or stool
Feelings of heaviness or pressure in the vaginal area
Diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation)
Painful intercourse after delivery
C-section scar tissue management
Return to exercise safely

In many European countries, pelvic floor rehabilitation is a standard part of postpartum care. While this practice is not yet universally adopted in Canada, awareness is growing among healthcare providers and patients alike about the benefits of assessment and treatment during the postpartum period.

Many pelvic floor physiotherapists recommend an initial assessment around six to eight weeks postpartum, though treatment can begin at any point: whether months or years after giving birth. It is never too late to address pelvic floor concerns.

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence affects far more people than many realize. The Canadian Continence Foundation estimates that millions of Canadians experience some form of bladder control issues, yet many never seek treatment due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that leakage is simply a normal part of aging or having children.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy addresses several types of urinary incontinence:

Stress urinary incontinence involves leakage that occurs with physical activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, running, or jumping. This type often responds well to strengthening exercises and movement retraining.

Urge urinary incontinence involves a sudden, strong need to urinate that may be difficult to defer, sometimes resulting in leakage before reaching a bathroom. Treatment often includes bladder retraining techniques, lifestyle modifications, and management of muscle overactivity.

Mixed incontinence combines elements of both stress and urge incontinence and requires a comprehensive treatment approach.

Research consistently demonstrates that pelvic floor muscle training is an effective first-line treatment for urinary incontinence, often significantly reducing or eliminating symptoms.

Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis

Chronic pelvic pain can arise from many sources and often involves complex interactions between muscles, nerves, organs, and the nervous system. Conditions that may benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy include:

Endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often causes chronic pelvic pain. While endometriosis itself requires medical management, the secondary muscle tension and movement patterns that develop in response to ongoing pain can be effectively addressed through physiotherapy.

Vulvodynia and vestibulodynia involve chronic pain in the vulvar region without an identifiable cause. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help address muscle tension, nerve sensitivity, and pain management strategies.

Painful bladder syndrome and interstitial cystitis cause bladder pressure, pain, and urinary frequency. Pelvic floor physiotherapy may help manage associated muscle tension and bladder retraining.

Dyspareunia, or painful intercourse, can result from various causes including muscle tension, scar tissue, hormonal changes, or nerve sensitivity. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help identify contributing factors and develop treatment strategies.

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome involves persistent pain in the pelvic region that may not have a clear underlying cause. Physiotherapy approaches focus on addressing muscle dysfunction, movement patterns, and pain education.

For individuals living with chronic pelvic pain, pelvic floor physiotherapy often forms one component of a multidisciplinary treatment approach that may also include medical management, mental health support, and other therapeutic interventions.

Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken, allowing one or more organs to descend from their normal position. This may involve the bladder (cystocele), urethra (urethrocele), uterus (uterine prolapse), small bowel (enterocele), or rectum (rectocele).

Symptoms of prolapse may include:

A sensation of heaviness, pressure, or "something coming down" in the vaginal area
A visible or palpable bulge at the vaginal opening
Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel completely
Urinary incontinence or increased frequency
Low back pain that worsens throughout the day

Pelvic floor physiotherapy for prolapse focuses on strengthening supporting muscles, teaching strategies to reduce downward pressure during daily activities, optimizing bowel habits, and using devices called pessaries when appropriate. Research indicates that physiotherapy can improve prolapse symptoms and may reduce the degree of prolapse, particularly in mild to moderate cases.

For more severe prolapse or when conservative treatment is insufficient, surgical options exist. In these cases, pelvic floor physiotherapy before and after surgery can optimize outcomes.

Men's Pelvic Health

Pelvic floor dysfunction is not exclusively a women's health issue, though this misconception often prevents men from seeking appropriate care. Men have pelvic floor muscles that perform similar functions: supporting pelvic organs, controlling bladder and bowel function, and contributing to sexual health.

Conditions affecting men that may benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy include:

Post-prostatectomy incontinence is common following surgical removal of the prostate gland. Pelvic floor muscle training before and after surgery can significantly improve recovery of bladder control.

Chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome cause pain in the pelvic region, often accompanied by urinary symptoms. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can address associated muscle tension and movement patterns.

Erectile dysfunction may have a pelvic floor component, particularly when it involves difficulty maintaining erections or occurs alongside other pelvic floor symptoms.

Post-void dribbling involves continued leakage of urine after urination is complete. Pelvic floor exercises and techniques can help address this common concern.

Chronic constipation can be related to coordination difficulties with the pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements.

Men experiencing any of these concerns may benefit from assessment by a pelvic floor physiotherapist. The treatment approaches used are similar to those employed for women, though the assessment and treatment will be tailored to male anatomy.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Pelvic floor physiotherapy before certain surgical procedures, often called "prehabilitation," can improve postoperative outcomes. Surgeries where preoperative pelvic floor physiotherapy may be beneficial include:

Prostatectomy (prostate removal)
Hysterectomy (uterus removal)
Prolapse repair surgery
Colorectal surgery
Certain gynecological procedures

Preoperative physiotherapy allows individuals to learn pelvic floor exercises and techniques before surgery when learning may be easier, establish a baseline for comparison during recovery, address any existing dysfunction that could complicate recovery, and develop a relationship with a physiotherapist who can support postoperative rehabilitation.

If you have an upcoming pelvic surgery, ask your surgeon whether preoperative pelvic floor physiotherapy might benefit your recovery.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Understanding what happens during a pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment can help reduce anxiety and allow you to prepare appropriately. While the experience may feel vulnerable, pelvic floor physiotherapists are trained to create a comfortable, respectful environment for assessment and treatment.

Before Your Appointment

When booking your first appointment, the clinic may send you intake forms to complete in advance. These typically ask about your medical history, current symptoms, bladder and bowel habits, pregnancy and birth history (if applicable), and your goals for treatment. Completing these forms thoughtfully helps your physiotherapist prepare for your visit.

Consider keeping a bladder or bowel diary for a few days before your appointment, noting fluid intake, bathroom visits, and any symptoms. This information provides valuable insights for your assessment.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. You will likely be asked to change into a gown or shorts for the physical assessment portion.

The Initial Assessment

A first appointment for pelvic floor physiotherapy typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The session generally includes several components:

Detailed history taking: Your physiotherapist will ask questions about your symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect your daily life. They will also ask about your medical history, surgeries, pregnancies, medications, and other relevant information. These questions may feel personal, but honest answers help guide appropriate treatment.

Goal setting: Understanding what you hope to achieve through treatment helps your physiotherapist develop a relevant plan. Goals might include returning to running without leakage, reducing pain with intercourse, or preparing for an upcoming surgery.

Postural and movement assessment: Your physiotherapist may observe how you stand, walk, bend, and move. Posture and movement patterns can affect pelvic floor function.

External examination: With your consent, your physiotherapist may palpate muscles around the pelvis, hips, and abdomen while you lie on a treatment table. This helps identify areas of tension, weakness, or tenderness.

Internal assessment: The most thorough assessment of pelvic floor muscle function involves an internal vaginal or rectal examination. Your physiotherapist will use a gloved, lubricated finger to assess muscle tone, strength, coordination, and any areas of tenderness. You will be asked to contract and relax your muscles while your physiotherapist provides feedback about what they observe.

Understanding Consent and Comfort

It is essential to understand that internal examination is never required. While it provides the most detailed information about your pelvic floor muscles, you can decline this portion of the assessment and still receive treatment based on external assessment, symptom history, and your response to therapeutic exercises.

Your physiotherapist should explain each part of the assessment before beginning, obtain your informed consent, check in with you throughout the process, and stop at any point if you are uncomfortable.

If you have a history of trauma, chronic pain, or anxiety about the examination, communicate this to your physiotherapist beforehand. They can modify their approach, allow extra time, or take other steps to ensure you feel safe and respected.

Treatment Sessions

After your initial assessment, your physiotherapist will discuss their findings and proposed treatment plan. Follow-up treatment sessions are typically 30 to 60 minutes and may include:

Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to release tight muscles, improve tissue mobility, or address scar tissue. This may include external work on hip, abdominal, and back muscles, as well as internal techniques (with your consent) for the pelvic floor itself.

Therapeutic exercises: Your physiotherapist will teach you exercises tailored to your specific needs. These might include strengthening exercises if your muscles are weak, relaxation techniques if your muscles are too tight, or coordination exercises if your muscles are not working together effectively.

Biofeedback: This technique uses sensors (external or internal) to provide visual or auditory feedback about your muscle activity. Biofeedback helps you learn to identify and control pelvic floor muscles that you may not be able to see or easily feel.

Electrical stimulation: In some cases, gentle electrical stimulation may be used to help weak muscles contract or to reduce muscle overactivity. This technique is painless and can be helpful when you have difficulty activating muscles on your own.

Education: Understanding how your body works, why symptoms occur, and how daily habits affect your pelvic floor is an important part of treatment. Your physiotherapist will provide education tailored to your situation.

Home exercise program: You will be given exercises to practice between appointments. Consistent home practice is essential for progress, though your program will be designed to fit realistically into your life.

How to Find a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in BC

Finding the right pelvic floor physiotherapist is an important step in your care journey. Here is what you need to know about accessing this specialized service in British Columbia.

Referral Requirements

In BC, you do not need a doctor's referral to see a physiotherapist, including one specializing in pelvic floor conditions. You can book directly with a clinic offering pelvic floor services. However, some extended health insurance plans may require a physician's referral for coverage, so check your specific plan before booking.

While a referral is not required, some people choose to discuss pelvic floor concerns with their family doctor, nurse practitioner, midwife, or specialist first. These providers can rule out other conditions, provide referrals to specific physiotherapists they trust, and help coordinate your care.

Credentials to Look For

All physiotherapists practicing in BC must be registered with the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC (formerly the College of Physical Therapists of BC). This ensures they have completed required education and maintain professional standards.

When seeking a pelvic floor physiotherapist specifically, look for additional training in pelvic health. Relevant credentials and certifications may include:

Pelvic health certification courses: Many physiotherapists complete extensive postgraduate training in pelvic health assessment and treatment through various educational organizations. Ask what training your physiotherapist has completed.

FCAMPT designation: The designation Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy Therapists indicates advanced manual therapy training. While not specific to pelvic health, this credential demonstrates commitment to advanced education.

Years of experience: Ask how long the physiotherapist has been treating pelvic floor conditions and approximately how many patients with your specific concern they have worked with.

Continuing education: Pelvic health is an evolving field. Physiotherapists who regularly attend conferences, take additional courses, and stay current with research provide the most up-to-date care.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Clinic

When calling clinics to find the right fit, consider asking:

Does the clinic have physiotherapists who specialize specifically in pelvic floor conditions?
What training and experience does the pelvic floor physiotherapist have?
Has the physiotherapist treated other patients with my specific concern?
What does a typical initial assessment involve?
How long are treatment sessions?
What are the fees, and does the clinic direct bill to my insurance?
How soon can I get an appointment?
Is the physiotherapist comfortable working with my demographic (for example, men, postpartum, LGBTQ2S+ individuals)?

Trust your instincts about whether a clinic seems like a good fit for you. The therapeutic relationship matters, and you should feel comfortable with your physiotherapist.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Clinics in Vancouver and BC

While not all physiotherapy clinics offer specialized pelvic floor services, many clinics in the Vancouver area and across BC provide comprehensive physiotherapy care. When inquiring about pelvic floor physiotherapy, ask specifically whether the clinic has practitioners with training and experience in this specialized area. Below are established physiotherapy clinics in various BC locations where you may inquire about pelvic floor services.

Vancouver

Burrard Physiotherapy offers a range of services including physiotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture, Pilates, and kinesiology. Located in Vancouver, this established clinic provides comprehensive musculoskeletal care. Contact the clinic directly to inquire about pelvic floor physiotherapy availability and whether their team includes practitioners with specialized training in this area.

Treloar Physiotherapy is a Vancouver clinic providing physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, manual therapy, and acupuncture services. Their focus on manual therapy techniques may be relevant to some pelvic floor treatment approaches. Inquire about whether they have physiotherapists specializing in pelvic health.

Vancouver Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic offers physiotherapy, sports medicine, massage therapy, acupuncture, and Pilates. Their varied service offerings suggest a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation. Those interested in pelvic floor physiotherapy should contact the clinic to ask about specialized practitioners.

Allan McGavin Sports Medicine Clinic is a well-established Vancouver facility providing sports medicine, physiotherapy, and injury rehabilitation services. While their primary focus is sports-related conditions, they may have practitioners with pelvic health experience or can provide referrals. Contact them directly for information about pelvic floor services.

Kinematics Sports Medicine offers physiotherapy, chiropractic care, ICBC rehabilitation, and sports medicine services in Vancouver. This multidisciplinary clinic may have team members with pelvic floor training. Contact them to inquire about this specialized service.

North Vancouver

COAST Performance Rehab in North Vancouver provides physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, and sports rehabilitation services. Their comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal care may extend to pelvic health for some practitioners. Inquire directly about pelvic floor physiotherapy availability.

Port Coquitlam

Tri-Cities Physiotherapy serves the Port Coquitlam area with physiotherapy, sports medicine, massage therapy, and acupuncture services. Residents of the Tri-Cities area seeking pelvic floor physiotherapy should contact this clinic to ask whether they have practitioners specializing in pelvic health.

Surrey

Fraser Valley Physiotherapy in Surrey offers physiotherapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture. Surrey residents looking for pelvic floor physiotherapy in their area should contact this clinic to inquire about specialized services and practitioner availability.

Kelowna

Kelowna Physiotherapy and Sports Clinic provides physiotherapy, sports medicine, massage therapy, and acupuncture services to the Kelowna community. Those in the Okanagan region seeking pelvic floor physiotherapy should contact this clinic to ask about practitioners with relevant training and experience.

Victoria

Victoria Physiotherapy and Pilates offers physiotherapy, clinical Pilates, massage therapy, and acupuncture in Victoria. Their inclusion of clinical Pilates is noteworthy, as Pilates-based approaches are often incorporated into pelvic floor rehabilitation. Contact the clinic to inquire about specific pelvic floor physiotherapy services.

Finding Dedicated Pelvic Floor Clinics

In addition to general physiotherapy clinics, several dedicated pelvic floor physiotherapy clinics operate in the Vancouver area and across BC. These specialized clinics focus exclusively on pelvic health conditions and may offer services beyond those available at general physiotherapy clinics. Search online for "pelvic floor physiotherapy" in your area, ask your healthcare provider for recommendations, or contact your extended health insurance provider for in-network specialists.

Cost of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy in BC

Understanding the costs associated with pelvic floor physiotherapy helps you plan financially and make informed decisions about your care. Below is an overview of typical fees you may encounter in BC.

Service Type	Typical Cost Range
Initial Assessment (60-90 minutes)	$150 - $200
Follow-up Session (30-45 minutes)	$100 - $160
Extended Follow-up Session (60 minutes)	$160 - $220
MSP Coverage	Limited (see below)
Extended Health Insurance	Typically covered
ICBC Coverage	Available if injury-related

Understanding Your Coverage Options

BC Medical Services Plan (MSP): MSP provides very limited coverage for physiotherapy services. Coverage is generally restricted to individuals who require physiotherapy following discharge from a hospital for an acute condition, as part of specific programs. For most people seeking pelvic floor physiotherapy, MSP will not cover treatment costs. However, coverage rules can change, so verify current policies through the BC government website or HealthLinkBC.

Extended health insurance: Most extended health insurance plans cover physiotherapy services, including pelvic floor physiotherapy, when provided by a registered physiotherapist. Coverage amounts vary widely between plans, ranging from a few hundred dollars annually to several thousand dollars. Some plans have per-visit limits, while others have annual maximums. Check your specific policy for coverage details, and ask whether a physician's referral is required for reimbursement.

ICBC coverage: If your pelvic floor dysfunction resulted from a motor vehicle accident, ICBC may cover physiotherapy as part of your claim. This could include pelvic injuries, tailbone injuries, or pelvic floor dysfunction resulting from accident-related trauma. Work with your ICBC adjuster and your physiotherapist to arrange coverage.

WorkSafeBC: If your condition is related to a workplace injury, WorkSafeBC may cover physiotherapy treatment. Discuss your situation with your WorkSafeBC case manager.

Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life, Manulife, and other major insurers: These and other insurance providers typically include physiotherapy in their extended health benefits. Contact your specific insurer for coverage details.

Health Spending Accounts (HSA): If your employer offers a Health Spending Account, physiotherapy services are typically eligible expenses.

Financial Assistance Options

If cost is a barrier to accessing pelvic floor physiotherapy, consider these options:

Ask clinics about sliding scale fees or payment plans
Look for physiotherapy services at teaching clinics associated with educational institutions, which may offer reduced rates
Inquire about shorter follow-up sessions if full-length sessions are not financially feasible
Focus on learning effective home exercises that allow you to progress between appointments

Do not let financial concerns prevent you from at least exploring your options. An initial assessment can provide valuable information about your condition and teach you strategies to begin addressing it, even if ongoing treatment is not immediately affordable.

How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of pelvic floor physiotherapy sessions required varies significantly depending on your specific condition, its severity, how long you have been experiencing symptoms, and how consistently you practice home exercises. Your physiotherapist can provide a more accurate estimate after your initial assessment.

General Guidelines

Mild symptoms or postpartum recovery assessment: 4-6 sessions

Many people with mild symptoms or those seeking postpartum assessment and guidance benefit from a shorter course of treatment. This allows for thorough assessment, education, and establishment of an effective home program.

Moderate symptoms or straightforward conditions: 6-12 sessions

Most people with clear diagnoses and moderate symptoms see significant improvement within 6-12 sessions. This timeline allows for assessment, treatment progression, and refinement of home exercises as you improve.

Chronic conditions or complex cases: 12+ sessions

Those with chronic pelvic pain, multiple contributing factors, or complex presentations often require longer treatment courses. Chronic conditions that have been present for years did not develop overnight and typically require more time to address.

Pre and post-surgical rehabilitation: Variable

If
Pre and post-surgical rehabilitation: Variable

If you're scheduled for pelvic surgery:such as a hysterectomy, prostatectomy, prolapse repair, or colorectal procedure:pelvic floor physiotherapy can play a crucial role in your recovery. Pre-surgical sessions focus on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and teaching you exercises you'll use post-operatively. This preparation can lead to faster recovery times and better outcomes.

Post-surgical rehabilitation typically begins once your surgeon clears you for physiotherapy, usually 4-8 weeks after the procedure. Treatment focuses on restoring muscle function, managing scar tissue, reducing pain, and gradually returning to normal activities. The number of sessions varies significantly depending on the type of surgery, your pre-operative fitness level, and how your body heals.

Pelvic Floor Exercises You Can Do at Home

While working with a pelvic floor physiotherapist provides personalized guidance, there are several exercises you can practice at home to support your pelvic health. Always consult with your physiotherapist before starting these exercises to ensure they're appropriate for your specific condition.

Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support your bladder, uterus (in women), and bowel.

How to perform Kegels:

Identify your pelvic floor muscles by stopping urination midstream (do this only once to identify the muscles:not as a regular exercise)
Once you've identified the muscles, empty your bladder and sit or lie down comfortably
Tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold for 3-5 seconds
Relax for 3-5 seconds
Repeat 10-15 times, three times per day

Tips for success:

Keep your abdominal, thigh, and buttock muscles relaxed
Breathe normally:don't hold your breath
Progress gradually to holding for 10 seconds as your muscles strengthen
Be patient; it may take 4-6 weeks to notice improvement

Reverse Kegels (Pelvic Floor Relaxation)

For those with tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles, reverse Kegels help promote relaxation. This is particularly important for individuals experiencing pelvic pain or those who have difficulty fully relaxing their pelvic floor.

How to perform reverse Kegels:

Sit or lie in a comfortable position
Take a deep breath in
As you exhale, imagine gently releasing or "letting go" of your pelvic floor muscles:as if you're allowing urine or gas to pass (without actually doing so)
Feel the gentle bulging or dropping sensation as the muscles relax
Hold this relaxed state for 5-10 seconds
Return to neutral and repeat 10 times

Important note: If you have pelvic organ prolapse, consult your physiotherapist before practicing reverse Kegels, as this exercise may not be appropriate for your condition.

Diaphragmatic Breathing

The diaphragm and pelvic floor work together:when you breathe in, both should descend and relax; when you breathe out, both should rise and gently contract. Diaphragmatic breathing helps coordinate this relationship and promotes overall pelvic floor health.

How to practice diaphragmatic breathing:

Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor
Place one hand on your chest and one on your belly
Breathe in slowly through your nose, allowing your belly to rise while your chest remains relatively still
As you inhale, feel your pelvic floor gently relax and descend
Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your belly fall and your pelvic floor gently lift
Practice for 5-10 minutes daily

Benefits:

Reduces tension in the pelvic floor
Promotes proper coordination between breathing and pelvic floor function
Helps manage stress and anxiety, which can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction
Supports core stability

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pelvic floor physiotherapy covered by MSP?

MSP coverage for pelvic floor physiotherapy is very limited in BC. Most patients pay out of pocket or through extended health insurance. Some community health centres may offer subsidized services, and certain hospitals provide pelvic floor physiotherapy that may be covered. Check with your extended health benefits provider to understand your coverage limits and whether a physician's referral is required for reimbursement.

Do I need a referral to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist?

No referral is required to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist in BC. You can book directly with any clinic offering these services. However, some insurance plans may require a physician referral for reimbursement, so it's worth checking with your provider before your first appointment. Having a referral can also be helpful for communication between your healthcare providers.

Is pelvic floor physiotherapy painful?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy should not be painful. Your physiotherapist will work within your comfort level and will always obtain your consent before any assessment or treatment technique. Some mild discomfort during internal assessment is normal, particularly if you have existing pelvic pain or muscle tension. Always communicate with your therapist about your comfort level:they can adjust their approach or use external-only techniques if preferred.

Can men benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Yes. Men can benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy for a wide range of conditions including urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain syndrome, erectile dysfunction, post-prostatectomy recovery, bowel dysfunction, and coccyx pain. Many clinics in Vancouver offer specialized programs for men's pelvic health. Despite common misconceptions, pelvic floor dysfunction affects people of all genders, and treatment approaches are tailored to each individual's anatomy and condition.

How is pelvic floor physiotherapy different from regular physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapists have specialized post-graduate training in assessing and treating the pelvic floor muscles, which may include internal vaginal or rectal assessment techniques not used in general physiotherapy. They have in-depth knowledge of conditions affecting the bladder, bowel, and sexual function, as well as pregnancy-related and post-surgical pelvic concerns. While general physiotherapists may address some pelvic-related issues, pelvic floor specialists offer more comprehensive evaluation and targeted treatment for these complex conditions.

Health Disclaimer

The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any treatment. For non-emergency health questions, call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.

Last Updated: May 2026

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