Let’s be honest—walking into your first pelvic floor physical therapy appointment can feel intimidating.

If you’re feeling nervous, uncertain, or even a little scared, I want you to know: I’ve been there.

Years ago, long before I became a pelvic health specialist, I was the patient. I struggled with pelvic pain for years and didn’t know there was help. Even after I became a physical therapist, I had my first baby with a broken leg and suffered a pelvic floor injury—and still, no one mentioned pelvic PT. Back then, there were hardly any pelvic PTs in my area. And truth be told, I was terrified when I finally went in for my own pelvic floor assessment. I had no idea what to expect.

That experience is what inspired me to specialize in pelvic health and create a space where women could feel seen, heard, and truly supported. I’ve been practicing in this specialty since 2010, and to this day, I still empathize with every patient who walks through our door with that nervous look in their eyes. Because I’ve been in their shoes.

So let me walk you through exactly what happens during a pelvic floor PT evaluation—what we look at, how we help, and why this visit might be one of the most empowering things you do for your health.

Why Pelvic Floor PT?

Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for people with “serious” issues. It’s for:

• Anyone dealing with bladder leaks, pelvic pain, or pressure
• Women wanting to return to exercise safely after childbirth
• People recovering from abdominal or pelvic surgery
• Those struggling with painful sex or constipation

Most of all, it’s for anyone who wants to feel more connected and confident in their own body.

Many of the patients we see at Pinnacle Women’s Therapeutics have been told their symptoms are “normal,” only to discover that there are real, evidence-based solutions available.

We also work with women who aren’t currently experiencing symptoms, but simply want to understand how their pelvic floor and core are functioning and ensure they’re moving well as they age. Preventive care in this area is powerful.

What Makes Our Evaluations Different

I knew I wanted to create a clinic that felt completely different from the sterile, impersonal vibe most of us associate with medical visits.

So here’s what you’ll experience when you walk into our office:

• Acalm, private room (no noisy gym areas)
• Warm lighting and cozy blankets
• Reallinens—not paper drapes
• Aspace heater to make sure you’re never shivering
• And, most importantly, a one-on-one session with a provider who listens

We treat each visit as a two-way conversation. You’ll never be rushed or pressured. We explain everything before we do anything, and nothing happens without your full consent and comfort.

You’ll be invited to ask as many questions as you like—and we welcome them! Education is one of our favorite parts of what we do. Understanding your body leads to lasting change.

What to Expect at Your First Visit

Here’s what a typical evaluation looks like:

1. Conversation & History

We start by talking. I’ll ask you about your symptoms, health history, birth experience (if applicable), activity levels, and goals. This helps me get a full picture of your body and your story.

2. Full Body Movement Assessment

We’ll observe how you breathe, how you stand, how your hips and spine move, and how your core and glutes engage. We may look at how you bend down or move from sitting to standing. These patterns help us uncover the “why” behind your symptoms.

3. Optional Pelvic Floor Assessment

If you’re comfortable, we may perform an internal pelvic floor exam. You’ll be draped with real linens (no paper gowns here!), and we’ll walk through exactly what we’re doing and what we’re feeling for—tone, coordination, strength, and any tenderness.

And if you’re not ready? That’s okay. We can do so much without an internal exam.

4. Gentle Tactile Cues & Reconnection Moments

Many patients tell me the most surprising part of their first visit is how eye-opening it is. With some gentle cues and guided breathwork, you may actually feel how your pelvic floor and deep core are supposed to work together for the first time. These are what I call “light bulb moments,” and they often change everything.

A Clear, Customized Plan

We’ll create a plan that fits you. That might include simple movements, breathwork, posture adjustments, or glute/core retraining. And you’ll leave knowing exactly what to work on and why it matters.

We often layer your home exercises into your daily routine with small habit changes so they’re actually doable. Your plan may include things like a breathing check-in while brushing your teeth, or practicing posture during a daily walk. Simple, but powerful.

Common Questions I Hear

Will it be painful?

No. We use gentle techniques, and we go at your pace. Nothing is ever forced.

Do I have to get undressed?

Only if you agree to an internal exam. And you’ll always be fully draped and comfortable.

Do I need a referral?

Not in Washington! We’re a direct access state, so you can book without a referral.

What if I cry or feel embarrassed?

You’re not alone. Many women feel emotional when finally talking about things they’ve kept quiet for years. Our room is a safe space.

Is it too late to get help?

Never. I’ve seen women decades postpartum make incredible progress. It’s never too late to reconnect and feel strong again.

How many visits will I need?

It depends on your goals and what we find during your evaluation. Some people come for 2–3 visits to get education and a plan. Others benefit from ongoing support over several weeks to fully resolve symptoms and build strength. We’ll decide together what feels right.

Can pelvic PT help with exercise or athletic goals?

Absolutely. We help runners return to their sport without leaking. We help weightlifters fine-tune their breath and pelvic floor control. We help dancers, new moms, weekend hikers—if your core and hips are involved, pelvic PT can help you do it better and more safely.

From My Patients (in their words):

“I felt so safe and understood. Buffy made me feel like my body wasn’t broken—it just needed support.”

“After years of bladder leaks, I finally feel in control again. I only wish I had come sooner.”

“I didn’t even know how disconnected I was from my core until my first visit. I left with more hope than I’ve had in years.”

You Don’t Have to Live with Symptoms

Whether you’re dealing with leaking, discomfort, heaviness, or you just want to move and feel better—pelvic floor therapy can help.

The sooner we identify what’s going on, the sooner we can help you feel like you again. If you’re ready to take the first step, we’re here.

👉 Contact us today to schedule your pelvic floor evaluation

Warmly,

Buffy Stinchfield, PT

Founder, The Pelvic Health Coach & Pinnacle Women’s Therapeutics