Question 1

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You don’t need a referral from your GP or specialist to book. Many people come directly to us, while others are referred by their GP, urologist or another healthcare professional.

Question 2

I’m embarrassed to talk about this. Is that common?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many people delay seeking help because they feel embarrassed or assume they’re the only person experiencing these symptoms. In reality they’re extremely common, and something we discuss every day, without judgement.

Question 3

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

It’s about understanding you and your goals. We’ll discuss your symptoms, history and lifestyle before carrying out an assessment appropriate to your situation, then explain what we believe is contributing and discuss your options. You’ll leave with a clear understanding of the next steps.

Question 4

Will I need an internal examination?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. An internal examination is often not required at the first appointment and, in some cases, isn’t required at all. If it’s likely to provide important information, we’ll explain why and only proceed with your consent.

Question 5

Can I bring my partner?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some people prefer to attend alone; others find it helpful to have their partner involved in understanding their condition and options. You’re welcome to bring a support person.

Question 6

I’ve had this problem for years. Can treatment still help?

Accepted Answer

Many people seek help after months or years. While every person is different and outcomes can never be guaranteed, improvement is often possible even when symptoms have been present for a long time.

Question 7

Is this just part of getting older?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Although some conditions become more common with age, many symptoms relate to changes that can often be improved or better managed. Growing older doesn’t mean you should accept ongoing symptoms as inevitable.

Question 8

Is erectile dysfunction always psychological?

Accepted Answer

No. ED can be influenced by blood vessel health, pelvic floor function, nerve function, medications, hormones, general health, lifestyle and psychological wellbeing. For many men, several factors are involved at once.

Question 9

If all my tests are normal, why do I still have symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Many pelvic health conditions are functional rather than structural. Scans and blood tests may appear normal while muscles, nerves, movement patterns or tissue function still contribute to your symptoms. Normal investigations don’t mean your symptoms aren’t real.

Question 10

Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help men?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. The male pelvic floor plays an important role in bladder control, bowel function, pelvic stability, erections, ejaculation and orgasm. When appropriate, improving pelvic floor function can make a meaningful difference.

Question 11

How do you decide which treatment is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Treatment is guided by your assessment, not a predetermined protocol. Different treatments optimise different aspects of function. Our job is to identify what’s contributing to your symptoms and recommend what’s most appropriate for you.

Question 12

Do I need to know what treatment I want before I book?

Accepted Answer

No, most people don’t. You don’t need to decide between shockwave, rehabilitation, biofeedback or anything else. That’s our job. Your job is simply to tell us what’s been happening.

Question 13

I’ve already tried medication. Why would physiotherapy help?

Accepted Answer

Medications such as Viagra® and Cialis® can be very effective and remain an important option, but they don’t address every contributing factor. Depending on your assessment, treatment may also focus on pelvic floor function, tissue health, movement or lifestyle. For many people the best results come from combining medical management with targeted rehabilitation.

Question 14

How many treatments will I need?

Accepted Answer

Every person is different. Some benefit from only a few appointments, while others need a longer programme depending on the complexity of their symptoms. After your assessment we’ll discuss realistic expectations and how progress is monitored.

Question 15

Are your treatments evidence-informed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Recommendations are guided by current research, clinical experience and your individual presentation. No single treatment is right for everyone, so we select the most appropriate combination based on your assessment.

Question 16

Will everything we discuss remain confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your privacy is extremely important to us. Everything discussed is managed in accordance with New Zealand privacy legislation and professional standards, in a respectful and supportive environment.

Question 17

Will my GP know I’ve attended?

Accepted Answer

Not unless you’d like them to. Your consultations remain confidential. If communicating with your GP would help coordinate your care, we’ll discuss it with you first and obtain your permission.

Question 18

Do you work with other healthcare professionals?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Where appropriate we regularly work alongside GPs, urologists, colorectal surgeons, pain specialists and others. Collaborative care often provides the best outcomes for more complex conditions.

Question 19

Do you only treat men?

Accepted Answer

No. Although we have a particular interest in men’s pelvic health, we also assess and treat women experiencing bladder dysfunction, pelvic pain and other pelvic floor conditions.

Seeking help can feel like a big step.

Still have a question?