Do I need a referral?

No, I am considered a first contact practitioner, meaning no referral is required. If your GP, Specialist or midwife has provided you with a referral please bring it along.

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When is a good time to see a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist?

If you aren't experiencing issues, there are still some key times which are important to touch base with a Women's Health Physiotherapist. 

1) Around 21-24 weeks gestation - We have strong evidence that supports guided, individualised Pelvic Floor Muscle strengthening from 20 weeks gestation for optimal pregnancy health and birth recovery. Birth recovery actually starts prior to giving birth, as it is acknowledged that I higher level of Pelvic Floor Muscle function delivers better health outcomes. Learning to activate the Pelvic Floor Muscles correctly and efficiently is paramount, and unless you have been checked in person by a qualified professional there is no way to know if what you are doing is correct.

2) Around 6-8 weeks post birth - Assessments with a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist go into greater detail and prioritise different outcomes than at your standard GP/obstetrician/midwife postnatal checks. Put simply, we all focus on different aspects, and all have a role to play to ensure you and your baby's health after birth. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists differ in their role as they can plan your next goals in physical recovery and how to get there safely. There are also some conditions and anatomical changes that can occur as a result of birth which may not give you any symptoms. It is particularly paramount to flag these, and ensure we are addressing and reducing risk factors for the development of some issues later in life.

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If you are experiencing issues, it is never to late (or too early) to book in. Symptoms to watch out for include:

- bladder or bowel leakage, or an inability to control wind

- doming in your tummy down the middle (aka DRAM, diastasis rectus abdominus) or an excessively protruding belly button (hernia)

- pelvic floor pain, dragging or heaviness

- lower back, hip, pelvic or pubic bone pain

- pain with intercourse or using tampons

- weakness in the core

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How long does my appointment go for?

I offer differing length appointments, as some conditions or consultations require more time than others. Please refer to my Services pages which shows a suggested appointment length. Please reach out if you feel you require a longer session, particularly if you have multiple issues you wish to discuss. Appointments can range from 30-60 minutes, and longer appointment sessions may require a non-refundable deposit to book.

 

What should I expect in my first physiotherapy consult?

There is typically a lot of talking and examination in your first appointment. At times, this can involve quite personal questions (especially if you have a pelvic floor concerns), so please don't hold back - I've probably heard it before!  A vaginal examination may be best practice for your presenting condition. If this is required we will discuss this with you on the day of your consult, or prior if you have concerns. Other options include non-invasive Real Time Ultrasonography, through the abdomen, which allows you to also see your muscles in action on a screen.

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What should I bring?

For most appointment types, I will email you a registration, consent and questionnaire forms after time of booking. Please complete these prior to your appointment so I can best plan your consultation and better use our 1:1 time together. 

Please also wear appropriate attire for easily treating the affected area (eg loose fitting clothing that we can move if need

You are also more than welcome to bring your baby/children to your appointment. Some mothers feel they get more out of their sessions when they aren't interrupted and can make other arrangements to mind their children. Having said that, it is my priority to accomodate all of my clients, and can manage most sessions around breastfeeding and fussy babies!

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What payment methods do you have?

Our clinic is a cashless site. We have an EFTPOS machine which can process card payments.

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I do accept Chronic Disease Management (previously Enhanced Primary Care) Plans, for 5 sessions partially subsidised by Medicare per calendar year if you are deemed eligible by your GP. Bulk billing is not available and a gap payment is applicable between the rebate amount (about $58) and my scheduled fees. This amount is higher (usually above 80% if you have reached your Safety Net in a calendar year. If you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan from your GP that you wish to use, please send this through prior to your session if possible.

Please note, we require the full fee to be paid on the day of the consultation, and then the rebate will then be processed in 24-48hours via your linked bank account with Medicare. Beth does not bulk bill and there is a gap fee on these appointments.

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Prices are subject to change without notice. Some consultations may require a non refundable deposit, especially in peak times or extended consultations. This will be considered a cancellation fee in the event of non-attendance or late cancellation.

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I have private health insurance for 'extras'. Can I bring my card to claim?

Yes, of course. You need your physical card on the day of the consultation to claim, or if you forget I can email you a receipt to claim back directly with your insurer. Some private health insurance cards are now being added to your Smartphone wallet. Please check directly with your fund.

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What is your cancellation policy?

We ask you provide as much notice as possible to reschedule or cancel appointments (which can be done via the link within the confirmation booking email you will receive). We currently have a waitlist, and giving notice allows another person to attend in your place.

Cancellations made within 24 hours of your treatment time, or failure to attend, will incur a cancellation fee.

Thank you for your co-operation.