If your OBGYN recommended pelvic floor physical therapy, you might be wondering what the next steps are.

Many patients leave their appointment thinking:

• Do I need a referral for pelvic floor physical therapy?

• Does insurance cover pelvic floor PT?

• How do I find a pelvic floor physical therapist?

• What happens at the first appointment?

This guide will walk you through exactly what to do after your OBGYN refers you to pelvic floor physical therapy.

Step 1: Understand Why Your OBGYN Recommended Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is commonly recommended for:

• Urinary leakage or urgency

• Pelvic pain

• Pain with intercourse

• Pregnancy-related discomfort

• Postpartum recovery

• Diastasis recti

• Constipation

• Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms

• Core weakness or back pain

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pelvic floor physical therapy is an effective treatment for many pelvic health conditions.

Many people are referred during:

• Pregnancy

• After childbirth

• During menopause

• When experiencing pelvic pain or bladder issues

Step 2: Do You Need a Referral for Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

This is one of the most common questions.

The answer: Sometimes — but not always.

Many states, including New Jersey, allow direct access to physical therapy, meaning you may be able to book an appointment without a referral.

However, you may still need a referral if:

• Your insurance requires one (Medicare always requires a prescription for physical therapy)

• You have an HMO plan

• Your doctor wants to send medical records

What you should do

1. Ask your OBGYN if they already sent a referral.

2. Call the pelvic floor PT clinic – our office number is (908) 443-9880

3. Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage – at Pelvic Health Center, we have a medical biller who can help you confirm your benefits.

Step 3: Check if Your Insurance Covers Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Most insurance plans cover pelvic floor therapy under physical therapy benefits.

Typical insurance coverage may include:

• In-network physical therapy visits

• Copay or coinsurance per visit

• A set number of approved sessions

You should ask your insurance:

• Is pelvic floor physical therapy covered?

• Do I need a referral?

• What is my copay or deductible?

• How many visits are allowed?

Many clinics, including Pelvic Health Center, also:

• Verify insurance for you

• Offer out-of-network billing

• Provide superbills for reimbursement

Step 4: Find a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Near You

Not every physical therapist specializes in pelvic health.

Look for a pelvic health specialist trained in:

• Pregnancy and postpartum care

• Pelvic pain

• Incontinence

• Core and abdominal rehab

You can search directories like the American Physical Therapy Association pelvic health provider database.

You can also search online for:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy near me

• Postpartum physical therapy

• Women’s health physical therapist

If you are local to Madison, NJ we would love to see you! Please give us a call at (908) 443-9880 to set up a free 10-minute consultation and to set up your evaluation.

Step 5: Schedule Your Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Appointment

When you call the clinic, they may ask for:

• Your referral (if required)

• Insurance information

• Your symptoms

• Your availability

Most clinics will:

• Verify insurance benefits

• Send intake paperwork

• Explain what your first visit will include

Booking early is helpful because pelvic floor specialists can have waitlists.

Step 6: How to Prepare for Your First Pelvic Floor PT Appointment

Patients often worry about this — but it’s simple.

Bring:

• Insurance card

• Photo ID

• Referral (if you have one)

• Completed intake forms

• Any relevant medical records

Wear:

• Comfortable clothing

• Something you can move in

Helpful tips:

• Eat normally before your appointment

• Use the restroom beforehand

• Write down questions or symptoms

Step 7: What Happens at Your First Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Visit

Your first visit is focused on understanding your body and symptoms.

A pelvic floor physical therapist will typically:

1. Review your medical and gynecological history (pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, sexual history, etc.)

2. Discuss symptoms and goals

3. Assess:

   • Breathing

   • Core strength

   • Posture

   • Hip and back movement

With your consent, they may perform a pelvic floor muscle assessment. This helps determine:

• Strength

• Coordination

• Muscle tension

• Areas contributing to pain or symptoms

You’ll leave your first visit with:

• A personalized treatment plan

• Exercises to start

• A schedule for follow-up visits

The Bottom Line: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Is a Great Next Step

If your OBGYN referred you to pelvic floor physical therapy, it’s because these treatments are safe, effective, and evidence-based.

The process is usually simple:

1. Confirm if you need a referral

2. Check insurance coverage

3. Schedule your appointment

4. Show up ready to start healing

Many patients say they wish they had started pelvic floor therapy sooner.