A physical therapy evaluation for vaginoplasty involves a thorough history-taking, establishing goals, and building trust. With your consent, a physical therapist will assess your core, posture and functional movements. When you feel ready, they may externally assess your pelvic floor and any scar tissue. With your permission, they may perform an internal assessment by inserting one lubricated finger into the vagina or rectum.

Once cleared by your surgeon, a PT can help you progress your dilator regimen, address muscle tension, restrictions or dysfunction, care for your scar, and provide support and guidance as you return to activities like exercise and sex.

Absolutely, physical therapy works to address the pelvic floor muscles and the surrounding structures and tissue that may be affected by a vaginoplasty. Learning to coordinate the pelvic floor is a major component to restoring function and this can be achieved with a trained physical therapist even years after a procedure.

Research has shown there are significantly lower rates of pelvic floor dysfunction for those seen by a PT pre- and postoperatively compared to those who only see a PT afterwards. By getting started early, you and your PT can address any issues you’re experiencing before surgery so that afterwards, you can focus on recovery.

Pelvic floor physical therapists may be experts at addressing the pelvic floor, but in order to fully support this muscle group, they understand that the rest of your body must be working well, too. This means your physical therapist is fully prepared to address any aches and pains that may seem unrelated to your vaginoplasty.