What to Expect at Your First Pelvic Floor Session (And Why You’re Always In Control)
If you’re considering pelvic floor therapy, you might have some questions — especially about internal exams. First, I want you to know: your comfort, consent, and empowerment are always my top priority.
This blog is here to answer your common questions, explain what internal exams are (and aren't), and share alternative ways we can work together — including if you’re not comfortable with internal work or if we’re meeting virtually!
What is an Internal Pelvic Floor Exam?
An internal exam is a gentle, gloved, and lubricated examination — usually vaginal and/or rectal — where I assess the muscles, tissues, and function of your pelvic floor from the inside.
It helps me check:
Muscle strength
Coordination
Areas of tension or tenderness
Organ support and positioning
Important things to know:
You are never required to have an internal exam to work with me.
You can change your mind at any time — before or during the session.
You stay fully clothed for all other assessments.
We go at your pace — everything is explained step-by-step, and you have full control to pause or stop at any point.
Internal exams can provide helpful information, but they are only one tool — not the only way we can assess and support your pelvic health.
Common Questions You Might Have
What if I'm menstruating?
It’s absolutely okay!
You can still attend your session while on your period. It’s completely your choice whether you want to proceed with an internal exam or skip it.
Some clients prefer to postpone internal work during their cycle; others are comfortable continuing. Either way, we have plenty of valuable things we can work on externally, through movement, breathwork, and education.
Can I opt out of an internal exam and still get help?
Absolutely.
We have many effective, empowering strategies that don't involve internal assessment at all (see below!).
Alternatives to an Internal Exam (or If You're Working With Me Virtually!)
If you're not comfortable with an internal exam — or if we’re working together virtually — you still have so many powerful options!
Here’s how we can support your pelvic floor without internal work:
✨ External Muscle Testing:
We assess your hips, core, glutes, and low back strength and mobility through simple movements. These muscles are closely linked with your pelvic floor health.
✨ Breathwork Assessment:
We'll check how your breathing patterns affect your core and pelvic floor connection. Sometimes adjusting your breath alone can make a big difference.
✨ Movement and Functional Screening:
By watching how you move — squats, lunges, sitting, standing — we can spot patterns that hint at pelvic floor tension, weakness, or compensation strategies.
✨ Education and Self-Release Techniques:
You’ll learn external stretches, muscle releases, and strengthening exercises tailored to you, all guided virtually or in-person — no internal work needed.
✨ Lifestyle and Behavior Coaching:
We’ll explore daily habits like toileting, posture, stress management, and movement routines, offering small changes that add up to lasting pelvic health improvements.
A Final Note: You’re In Charge
Every session is a collaboration — not a one-way street.
You’ll never be pressured into anything you’re not comfortable with. I’m here to guide you, educate you, and empower you, whether that involves internal assessments, external strategies, virtual coaching, or a blend of all of the above.
You deserve pelvic care that feels safe, supportive, and tailored to YOU.
If you ever have questions (even tiny ones!), I’m always happy to answer them.
