Unhurried, with no surprises
It is natural to feel a little apprehensive before a pelvic health visit. Here is, step by step, what will happen.
Talk
We talk about your concern and your history: cycle, pregnancies and births, surgery, bowel, bladder, sleep, stress, and what you would like to get back to.
Assess
We look at posture, breathing, pelvic and abdominal mobility and, where relevant and with your consent, the pelvic floor.
Treat
Your first session already includes treatment: hands-on techniques, exercise, acupuncture or whatever suits you best.
Plan
You leave with a clear explanation of what we found, a plan and simple exercises for home.
What to bring
- Recent reports and tests (scans, blood tests, letters from your doctor)
- A list of any medication you take
- Comfortable clothes
- For a baby visit: the child health record and, if possible, come at a time when your baby can feed
- Your questions, written down if that helps
Questions before your first visit
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. If you have reports, test results or a referral, please bring them: they help us understand the context. If anything comes up during the assessment that needs a medical opinion, we will tell you and refer you.
Is an internal exam required?
No. An internal (vaginal or, rarely, rectal) exam gives useful information about the pelvic floor, but it is always optional. We explain what it involves and why, and only do it with your consent. A great deal can be assessed and treated without it.
Can I come during my period?
Yes. If you would rather not have an internal exam on those days, we adapt the session.
Can I bring my baby or a partner?
Yes. After birth, many mothers come with their baby. In paediatric osteopathy and breastfeeding visits, the baby is of course the star.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the concern, how long it has been there and your daily life. At the end of the first visit we suggest a plan and review it as we go. There are no compulsory packages.
Do you issue invoices for insurance?
Yes, you receive an invoice with your tax number. Please check reimbursement terms with your insurer.
Cancellations: please let us know at least 24 hours in advance so the slot can be offered to someone else.
The first step is a conversation
Send a WhatsApp message saying what you are looking for, and Joana will get back to you to book a visit in Guimarães.
Joana usually replies within 24 working hours. Please do not send clinical details via WhatsApp: we will talk about them in person.