Gender Expansive Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Welcome to a Safe and Affirming Space

At SetPT, we are committed to providing pelvic floor physical therapy that respects and affirms your gender identity. We understand that every individual's journey is unique, and we are here to support you with compassion, dignity, and expert care.

Our Commitment to Education and Advocacy
Our team continuously educates ourselves on the needs of LGBTQIA+ communities to ensure that our care reflects current best practices. We also advocate for inclusive healthcare to address disparities and improve access to quality services for gender-diverse individuals.

Common Pelvic Issues

Gender-diverse people may face unique pelvic health needs. Pelvic floor therapy can help with issues like:

  • Pain or discomfort during or after gender-affirming surgeries
  • Preparation for or recovery from surgeries like vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, or metoidioplasty
  • Pelvic pain or tension unrelated to surgery
  • Incontinence, bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, or other functional concerns
  • Support for hormone therapy-related changes to tissues

Bowel Conditions

Issues with bowel movements can often lead to feelings of isolation and discomfort, making it difficult to discuss even with healthcare providers. We understand the sensitivity of these concerns and are here to offer support. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized plan aimed at identifying the root cause of your symptoms, ultimately helping you regain control and return to a healthy, active lifestyle with a clear, actionable plan.

  • Bowel Frequency or Urgency
  • Constipation
  • Fecal Incontinence or Seepage
  • Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures
  • Incomplete Bowel Emptying
  • Symptoms Related to IBS, Ulcerative Colitis, and More

Bladder Conditions

Urinary symptoms can be challenging and often contribute to increased stress. They may lead to multiple doctor visits and tests, yet without clear answers. Our goal is to guide you through this journey, gaining a comprehensive understanding of your symptoms and developing a tailored plan for success. Whether you're experiencing urine leakage, frequent urges, or difficulty with emptying, our team is committed to helping you regain your quality of life and return to the activities you enjoy.

  • BPE/BPH Symptoms 
  • Difficult Bladder Emptying
  • Frequent Urination
  • Interstitial Cystitis
  • Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
  • Painful Urination
  • Post-Void (Post-Micturation) Dribble 
  • Urinary Urgency

Sexual Function Conditions

Sexual function issues are often overlooked or avoided due to the sensitivity of the topic, and the overwhelming information online can add to the confusion. Our physical therapy team works with your healthcare providers to address these concerns, helping you improve sexual function and build confidence in your body. While these challenges can feel isolating, our team provides compassionate care, with a thorough understanding of your needs and a clear, personalized plan for improvement.

  • Cycling related issues (erectile dysfunction, genital numbness)
  • Erectile Dysfunction
  • Hard Flaccid Syndrome
  • Pain with Ejaculation or Orgasm
  • Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD)
  • Peyronie's Disease
  • Premature Ejaculation
  • SSRI Sexual Dysfunction

What to Expect

Your first appointment includes a private consultation with your pelvic floor physical therapist to discuss your health history, goals, and concerns. You'll have the opportunity to ask questions and set boundaries for your care. Physical assessments and treatments are always conducted with consent and in alignment with your comfort.

Our Inclusive Approach

We believe that gender diversity enriches our community, and our practice is designed to accommodate all patients, including those who are transgender, nonbinary, or gender nonconforming. Our approach includes:

Tailored Care Plans
We recognize that pelvic floor health needs vary based on anatomy, medical history, and personal goals. We'll collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that suits your needs.

Trauma-Informed Care
Our team is trained to ensure your comfort and emotional safety during assessments and treatments. We respect your boundaries and use techniques to minimize discomfort.

Affirming Environment:
From using your correct name and pronouns to offering gender-neutral restrooms, we aim to create a space where you feel seen and valued.

Understanding of the Whole-Body Connection:
Our pelvic floor therapists understand how the pelvic floor is connected to almost every system in the body; all patients may experience seemingly unrelated aches and pains but a clear understanding of the pelvic floor can help connect the dots and provide clarity to a variety of unrelated symptoms.

Testimonials

After trying a few different pelvic physical therapy facilities, I decided to visit SetPT because I believe they are the real pros. My everyday pain has subsided, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone at the facility.
I was hesitant to try pelvic PT, but SetPT made me feel comfortable from day one. My pain is finally under control, and I feel like myself again.
SetPT changed my life. After struggling with discomfort for years, I finally found relief. The team is knowledgeable, kind, and truly cares.
Finding a pelvic health provider that respects my identity was important to me. SetPT provided expert care in a welcoming space—I couldn't be happier with my progress.

Local Support Groups in Washington D.C.

The DC Center offers a variety of support groups, including those for LGBTQ People of Color, older adults, and more. They also provide resources and events to strengthen and support the LGBTQ community

Whitman-Walker Provides peer support groups for various communities, including queer women and LGBTQ individuals over 60. They focus on health and wellness services for the LGBTQ community.

PFLAG DC Offers support for families, allies, and people who are LGBTQ. They provide monthly support group meetings and resources to keep families together and promote equality.

Bet Mishpachah : A congregation that supports Jewish LGBTQ individuals, offering religious services, educational programs, and a supportive community.

Capital Pride collaborates with various LGBTQ+ organizations to promote pride events and provide resources for the community.

National Support Groups

PFLAG National: The nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families.

LGBT National Help Center: Offers confidential peer support, information, and local & national resources through hotlines and online chat for all ages.

National LGBTQ Task Force: Dedicated to achieving freedom and justice for LGBTQ people and their families through proactive initiatives.

Human Rights Campaign (HRC): Provides resources and support services for LGBTQ youth, including online and phone support.

Information on Gender-Affirming Surgeries and Recovery

You don't have to navigate pelvic health challenges alone. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.