Introduction

It is estimated that one in three women live with some sort of pelvic health concern that significantly impacts their physical function, psychosocial well being, and overall quality of life. These conditions are wide and varied and may be further divided into subcategories of gynaecology, urology, obstetrics, pain science, orthopaedics, and more. Because pelvic health physiotherapists live at the junction of these subcategories, they are integral to helping women restore their pelvic health and function.
Through this programme of courses, you will understand the current landscape of women’s health and be challenged to view pelvic health through a different lens. You will learn the anatomy and physiology of the pelvic floor, as well as the most common conditions faced by women. A walk-through of physiotherapy assessment and treatment for pelvic health conditions will be provided. Lastly, there will be an important discussion about the impact of childbirth on the pelvic floor and factors to consider when working with women during the postpartum period and beyond.

Aims

This programme aims to provide an overview to key topics in the world of women’s health and introduce foundational pelvic health concepts that every therapist ought to know. It is designed for two types of physiotherapists: 1) those who are interested in or new to the world of women’s pelvic health, and 2) those working in other contexts who desire to better serve their female patients and to understand when collaborating with a women’s pelvic health physiotherapist may be appropriate. You will leave not only educated but also inspired.

Outline

This programme will cover the following topics:

1. Overview and Introduction to Women's Pelvic Health
2. Overview of Female Pelvic Floor Muscle Anatomy and Physiology
3. Common Women's Pelvic Health Conditions
4. Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment of the Pelvic Floor
5. Childbirth and the Pelvic Floor
6. Postpartum Pelvic Floor Considerations

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.