Frequently Asked Questions at Kare Physiotherapy

At Kare Physiotherapy, we understand that pelvic health is deeply personal. Our team is here to support you with compassion, knowledge, and a calm, respectful approach. Below are some of the questions we’re most often asked, to help you feel informed and comfortable before your visit.

1. What can I expect at my first pelvic physiotherapy appointment?

Your first session includes a conversation about your health history, current concerns, and goals. We’ll gently assess posture, movement, and—only if you feel comfortable—your pelvic floor through an internal exam. From there, we’ll work together to create a personalized plan that supports your healing and confidence.

2. Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No referral is needed to book with us. However, some insurance providers may ask for one to reimburse your visits—so it’s a good idea to check your plan.

3. What should I wear to my appointment?

Wearing something you feel comfortable moving in—athletic or loose-fitting clothing is ideal. We may be doing gentle movement, exercise, or hands-on assessment during your visit.

4. Should I reschedule if I’m on my period?

Not at all—you’re welcome to keep your appointment. If you’d prefer to skip internal work during this time, we can focus on other external muscles that work with your core and pelvic muscles and keep your progress moving forward.

5. Do I have to have an internal exam?

Absolutely not. We’ll explain every option and always ask for your consent. If you’re not comfortable with internal assessment, we have plenty of other effective ways to assess and treat your pelvic floor.

6. How many appointments will I need?

Everyone’s journey is unique. Some clients come for a few sessions, others benefit from longer-term support. After your assessment, we’ll recommend a plan that fits your goals and respects your time.

7. Is pelvic physiotherapy covered by insurance?

Most extended health plans do cover pelvic physiotherapy under physiotherapy services. We suggest checking your individual coverage to confirm.

8. Can I bring my baby or child with me?

Ideally, we recommend not bringing your children so you can focus on your own care and get the best quality and time out of your appointment. However, if you need to bring your infant or baby we totally understand.

9. What’s your cancellation policy?

We kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer that time to someone else in need of care. A fee of $50.00 is charged for less than 48 hr's notice; the FULL fee of the appointment will be charged for less than 24 hr's notice.

We can always offer an online telehealth appointment instead to avoid any cancellation charges.

10. Are your therapists trauma-informed and do you support survivors of trauma and abuse?

Yes. We take a trauma-sensitive approach to care and we support patients of all types of trauma and abuse. That means we check in often, explain everything clearly, and ensure you always feel safe, heard, and completely in control of your care. We create a healing and supportive environment to avoid any possible triggers or dysregulation of your nervous system.

11. Is pelvic physio safe during pregnancy and when should I start treatment?

Yes! Pelvic physiotherapy during pregnancy can help manage discomfort, support pelvic alignment, and prepare your body for birth. We tailor each session to your trimester and goals.

We recommend having at least one visit earlier in the pregnancy (around 16 wks) to ensure you have good awareness and control of your pelvic floor and of all your core muscles. Then if there are any concerns to address; we have many patients that see us regularly to stay strong and pain free during the entire pregnancy AND to prepare for the best birth and postpartum recovery possible.

12. When can I start pelvic physio after giving birth vaginally or via c-section?

We often recommend starting around 4–6 weeks postpartum, depending on your healing and how you’re feeling. You’re also welcome to come sooner for questions, education, or gentle early support. We also offer online telehealth appointments so you can start postpartum physio as early as you wish; even if you aren't yet ready to leave your house.

13. What conditions can pelvic physiotherapy help with?

We support clients with a wide range of concerns, including:

  • Urinary or bowel leakage
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Pain with intimacy OR lack of pleasure/orgasm
  • Pelvic, abdominal or low back pain
  • Prenatal and postpartum care
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g., endometriosis, hysterectomy, c-sections, prostate surgery)
Please check our website for a more extensive list of pelvic conditions for ALL genders.

If you’re unsure whether pelvic physio is right for you, reach out—we’re happy to help guide you.

14. How many appointments should I book?

We suggest pre-booking at least 2 follow ups after your assessment, purely to ensure that once we see you we can start treatment right away (otherwise our schedules fill up 6 weeks ahead and it can be hard to care for you effectively).

Remember appointments can always be cancelled, and it’s easier to cancel that to book at short notice.

Number of total treatments will vary depending on the condition we are treating.

15. Is pelvic physio just for women?

Not at all. At Kare Physiotherapy, we support people of ALL genders. We treat pelvic health concerns in men, women, and non-binary individuals with sensitivity and expertise.

16. Will treatment be painful?

Our goal is to reduce pain, not cause it. Some techniques may feel unfamiliar, but we always work within your comfort level. You’re encouraged to speak up—we’ll listen.

17. I’ve heard of Kegels—should I be doing them?

Not necessarily. In fact, many people benefit more from relaxing their pelvic floor than strengthening it. We’ll assess your unique needs and guide you toward the right exercises for your body.

18. Does your clinic offer a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space for queer patients?

Yes. Kare Physio is a safe and supportive space for everyone, regardless of your sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. We’re here to make sure you feel comfortable, respected, and understood. During your intake, you’ll have the chance to share your preferred name, pronouns, and gender identity. We also have physiotherapists trained to assist patients going through gender reassignment surgery, providing the care and support needed before,during and after your transition. Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan that’s all about your unique needs and well-being.

19. I've been to pelvic PT before, can you still help?

Absolutely! Many of our patients have been to other facilities. We have a unique treatment patient specific approach, many years of pelvic physio expertise and advanced techniques - many of our patients tell us that they have experienced better outcomes than perhaps other styles of treatment that patients have tried in the past.

20. Is it OK if I feel more comfortable bringing someone to support me during my appointment?
Yes, absolutely! Your comfort is our first priority and if you would like to bring someone to help ask questions, act as a support, or just be there with you, this is 100% OK with us.
21. Do you do direct billing to insurance?

No, we don't do direct billing. You pay for your treatment at time of service and then can submit your receipt to your extended health benefit plan for reimbursement. Kare Physio has registered physiotherapists so pelvic physiotherapy treatment is covered just like any other type of regular physiotherapy service.

22. Do you accept ICBC, Worksafe Claims or MSP?

No, we do not accept ICBC, Worksafe or MSP but we can refer you to other local pelvic physio clinics that may accept this type of coverage.

23. Do you have free parking?

Yes! When you arrive you will see we are located in a residential neighborhood in Glenmore at 1682 Willow Crescent. We are NOT located in the main house but in a separate building at the bottom of the driveway. You can see the clinic from the road. Just walk down the driveway, past the black wrought iron gate and you will see the clinic. We have free parking on the street or in the driveway if there is adequate space.

There is also free parking at Jack Robertson Park which is 2 houses down the road from our clinic.

24. Do you offer virtual or online appointments?

Yes! Online appointments are great if you live in a community in BC that doesn't offer pelvic physiotherapy. We can virtually treat anyone in BC. Also, online appointments are a great option if you just had a baby and if you are in too much pain, too tired or just not ready to leave the house.

Telehealth is also an option so you can still attend an appointment instead of needing to cancel your appointment at the last minute due to childcare issues or unsafe road conditions.