When you’re preparing for your first pelvic floor therapy appointment, it’s natural to feel uncertain about what to wear to pelvic floor therapy. The right clothing can make a significant difference in your comfort level and the effectiveness of your session. Understanding what to expect and how to dress appropriately will help you feel more confident and ready to begin your recovery journey.
Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that addresses a range of conditions, from incontinence and pelvic pain to post-pregnancy recovery and surgical rehabilitation. During these sessions, your therapist will need access to your pelvic region to perform assessments and treatments. Choosing the right outfit ensures you can move freely, maintain your dignity, and get the most out of each appointment.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Therapy Sessions
Before we dive into clothing recommendations, it helps to know what happens during a typical pelvic floor therapy session. Your therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment that may include external and internal evaluations of your pelvic floor muscles. These assessments help identify muscle weakness, tension, or dysfunction that contributes to your symptoms.
Treatment techniques vary but often include manual therapy, biofeedback, therapeutic exercises, and education about posture and movement mechanics. Your therapist may ask you to perform certain movements or exercises while they observe your form and muscle activation patterns. Some sessions might involve lying on a treatment table, while others include standing or sitting exercises.
Knowing this context makes it easier to understand why clothing choices matter. You need something that allows your therapist to access the treatment area while keeping you as comfortable as possible throughout the session.
Best Clothing Options for Pelvic Floor Therapy
Comfortable, Loose-Fitting Bottoms
The most important piece of advice for what to wear to pelvic floor therapy is to choose bottoms that are easy to remove or adjust. Loose-fitting pants, athletic shorts, or a skirt are all excellent options. Avoid tight jeans, restrictive leggings with complicated waistbands, or anything that takes significant effort to remove.
Many patients find that elastic-waist pants or drawstring shorts work particularly well. These allow you to quickly change if needed and don’t create uncomfortable pressure on your abdomen or hips during exercises.
Two-Piece Outfits
Wearing separates rather than a one-piece outfit (like a dress or jumpsuit) gives you more flexibility during your appointment. A two-piece outfit allows you to remove only your bottoms while keeping your top on, which many patients find more comfortable and less exposing.
Choose a top that provides adequate coverage and won’t ride up during movement. A fitted t-shirt or tank top paired with a light cardigan works well if you want an extra layer for modesty.
What to Avoid
Certain clothing items can make your session more awkward or uncomfortable:
- Tight or restrictive clothing: Skinny jeans, compression leggings, or anything difficult to remove quickly
- Complicated fasteners: Multiple buttons, zippers, or hooks that slow down changing
- One-piece outfits: Dresses, rompers, or jumpsuits that require full removal
- Thong underwear: While you can wear whatever underwear you prefer, many therapists recommend fuller coverage options that are easier to work around during internal assessments
What About Underwear?
This is one of the most common questions patients ask about what to wear to pelvic floor therapy. The answer depends on your specific treatment and your comfort level.
For many internal assessments and treatments, you may be asked to remove your underwear entirely. Your therapist will provide draping (similar to what you’d experience during a gynecological exam) to maintain your privacy and dignity throughout the session.
If you prefer to keep your underwear on for external assessments and exercises, choose simple, comfortable styles without excessive lace, seams, or embellishments. Cotton briefs or boy shorts are practical choices that won’t interfere with treatment.
Your therapist will always explain what’s needed before beginning any assessment or treatment. Never hesitate to ask questions or express your preferences about clothing during your session.
Additional Items to Consider
Socks or Easy-to-Remove Shoes
Many clinics ask patients to remove their shoes during therapy sessions. Wearing slip-on shoes or bringing a pair of clean socks makes this process easier. Some exercises may be performed barefoot, while others work better with socks for stability.
A Change of Clothes
If you’re coming straight from work or another activity, consider bringing a change of clothes to your appointment. This allows you to wear whatever you need for your day and change into something more appropriate for therapy when you arrive.
Personal Comfort Items
Some patients feel more comfortable bringing a small blanket or wearing layers they can adjust. Your therapist will provide draping materials, but having your own comfort items can help you feel more at ease, especially during your first few appointments.
What Your Therapist Will Provide
At Fusion Rehab and Wellness, we understand that pelvic floor therapy can feel vulnerable, especially during your first visit. Our therapists prioritize your comfort and privacy throughout every session.
We provide clean draping materials similar to what you’d find at a doctor’s office. These sheets or towels cover areas not being assessed or treated, ensuring you maintain your dignity throughout the appointment. We also have private treatment rooms where you can change in comfort before your session begins.
Our therapists are trained to explain each step of the assessment and treatment process before proceeding. You’ll always know what to expect, and we encourage you to ask questions or express concerns at any point during your visit.
Tips for Your First Appointment
Walking into your first pelvic floor therapy session can feel intimidating, but being prepared helps ease those nerves. Here are some additional tips beyond what to wear to pelvic floor therapy:
Arrive a few minutes early: This gives you time to fill out paperwork, use the restroom, and settle in before your appointment begins.
Communicate openly: Tell your therapist about any concerns, previous experiences, or specific areas of discomfort. The more information they have, the better they can tailor your treatment.
Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about anything you’re unsure about, whether it’s related to clothing, treatment techniques, or expected outcomes.
Be patient with yourself: Pelvic floor therapy addresses sensitive issues, and it’s normal to feel uncomfortable at first. Most patients find that their anxiety decreases significantly after the initial appointment once they understand the process.
Beyond Clothing: Preparing for Success
While knowing what to wear to pelvic floor therapy is important, your overall preparation matters just as much. Here are some additional ways to set yourself up for a successful session:
Hydration
Drink plenty of water before your appointment, but avoid excessive fluid intake immediately before your session. Your therapist may ask you to empty your bladder before certain assessments.
Timing
Try to schedule your appointment when you’re not menstruating if possible, as this can affect some assessments. However, if you need to come during your period, don’t cancel—just let your therapist know ahead of time.
Medication and Pain Management
Take any prescribed pain medication as directed before your appointment. If you’re dealing with significant pain, communicate this with your therapist so they can adjust their approach accordingly.
What Happens During Assessment
Understanding the assessment process helps explain why certain clothing choices work better than others. During your initial evaluation, your therapist will:
- Review your medical history: This includes discussing symptoms, previous treatments, surgeries, pregnancies, and daily activities that may affect your pelvic floor.
- Perform external assessments: Your therapist will observe your posture, movement patterns, and breathing mechanics. They may palpate your abdomen, hips, and lower back to identify areas of tension or weakness.
- Conduct internal assessments if appropriate: With your consent, internal assessments help evaluate the strength, coordination, and tone of your pelvic floor muscles. This is similar to a gynecological exam but focuses specifically on muscle function.
- Develop a treatment plan: Based on their findings, your therapist will create a personalized program addressing your specific needs and goals.
Wearing appropriate clothing makes each of these steps easier and more comfortable for both you and your therapist.
Addressing Common Concerns
“I feel embarrassed about this type of therapy”
These feelings are completely normal and shared by many patients. Remember that pelvic floor therapists are trained healthcare professionals who treat these conditions every day. They approach your care with the same professionalism and respect as any other medical appointment. Most patients report feeling much more comfortable after their first session once they realize how clinical and professional the environment is.
“What if I’m uncomfortable during the session?”
Your comfort is a priority. You can stop any assessment or treatment at any time if you feel uncomfortable. Communicate openly with your therapist about your comfort level, and they’ll adjust their approach accordingly. Many clinics, including Fusion Rehab and Wellness, encourage patients to bring a support person to their first appointment if that helps them feel more at ease.
“How many sessions will I need?”
The number of sessions varies based on your condition, goals, and response to treatment. Some patients see significant improvement within a few weeks, while others benefit from longer-term care. Your therapist will discuss expected timelines during your initial evaluation and adjust your plan as you progress.
Special Considerations for Different Conditions
Different pelvic floor conditions may have specific clothing considerations:
Post-Pregnancy Recovery
If you’re recovering from childbirth, prioritize comfort over everything else. Your body is still healing, and you may be managing postpartum bleeding, incision sites from a C-section, or nursing needs. Loose, breathable fabrics work best, and don’t worry about looking put-together—your therapist understands what you’re going through.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
After pelvic surgery, you may have incisions, drains, or other medical devices to work around. Discuss these with your therapist before your appointment so they can advise you on the best clothing choices and treatment modifications.
Chronic Pain Conditions
If you’re dealing with conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, or vulvodynia, you may have heightened sensitivity to touch and pressure. Choose soft, seamless fabrics that won’t irritate sensitive areas. Let your therapist know about your pain levels so they can adjust their techniques accordingly.
Making the Most of Your Sessions
Once you know what to wear to pelvic floor therapy, you can focus on other aspects of your recovery. Consistency is key—attending your scheduled appointments and completing home exercises between sessions leads to better outcomes.
Track your symptoms and progress between appointments. Note any changes in pain levels, bladder or bowel function, or ability to perform daily activities. This information helps your therapist adjust your treatment plan and celebrate your improvements along the way.
Remember that pelvic floor therapy is a partnership between you and your therapist. The more engaged you are in your treatment, the better your results will be. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express concerns, or share victories—no matter how small they might seem.
Finding the Right Therapist
Choosing a qualified pelvic floor therapist matters as much as knowing what to wear to pelvic floor therapy. Look for therapists with specialized training and certification in pelvic health. At Fusion Rehab and Wellness, our team includes experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges of pelvic floor dysfunction.
We offer comprehensive pelvic floor therapy services tailored to your individual needs. Our therapists stay current with the latest treatment techniques and research, ensuring you receive evidence-based care that addresses the root cause of your symptoms rather than just managing them.
Taking the First Step
Preparing for pelvic floor therapy doesn’t have to be stressful. Now that you know what to wear to pelvic floor therapy and what to expect during your sessions, you can approach your first appointment with confidence.
The right clothing—comfortable, easy-to-remove bottoms paired with a two-piece outfit—sets the foundation for an effective and comfortable session. Combined with open communication with your therapist and commitment to your treatment plan, you’re well on your way to addressing your pelvic floor concerns and improving your quality of life.
If you’re ready to begin your recovery journey or have questions about pelvic floor therapy, schedule an appointment with our team at Fusion Rehab and Wellness. We’re here to support you every step of the way with compassionate, professional care that respects your comfort and dignity while delivering the results you deserve.
Similar to how gluteal amnesia requires specific attention and targeted treatment, pelvic floor dysfunction benefits from specialized care that addresses your unique needs. Don’t let uncertainty about what to wear or what to expect hold you back from getting the help you need. Your path to recovery starts with a single appointment.