Your Questions, Answered

  • No referral is required to book an appointment. You are welcome to self-refer.

    If you have been referred by your GP or specialist, please bring any relevant documentation with you. If you are planning to access Medicare under a Chronic Condition Management Plan, a GP referral is required prior to your appointment.

  • No, as this area of practice is not always covered in sufficient detail in entry-to-practice qualifications.

    A pelvic floor physiotherapist should hold a university degree in physiotherapy and be registered with AHPRA. However, given the complexity of pelvic health conditions, additional postgraduate training in continence and pelvic health physiotherapy is essential. This may be via courses provided by organisations such as the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) and other third party providers or via post graduate programs at a University.

    Clinicians may also hold “APA Titled” status, which recognises advanced training in a specific area of practice. A smaller number of physiotherapists then advance to complete the Specialisation pathway through the Australian College of Physiotherapists and are awarded Specialist recognition — the highest clinical qualification within the profession. As of 2026 there are 13 Specialist Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapists in Australia.

    In addition to her B. Physiotherapy qualification from the University of Melbourne, Anita also holds the following qualifications and titles:

    • Postgraduate certificate of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy (UniMelb)

    • Postgraduate certificate of Exercise for Women (UniMelb)

    • Master of Physiotherapy (UniMelb)

    • Postgraduate certificate in Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

    • APA Title Continence & Women’s Health Physiotherapist

    • Specialist Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist as awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists in 2022

    When seeking care, it is appropriate to consider a clinician’s postgraduate training, experience, and clinical focus to ensure you are receiving expert, evidence-based management.

  • A Specialist Physiotherapist is a clinician who has completed the highest level of clinical training within the physiotherapy profession in Australia.

    Specialisation is awarded by the Australian College of Physiotherapists following a rigorous assessment process and recognises advanced expertise, clinical reasoning, and leadership within a defined area of practice.

    As a Specialist Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist, this recognition reflects extensive postgraduate education, advanced clinical assessment skills, and significant experience in the management of complex pelvic health conditions. In Australia there are just 13 physiotherapists who have achieved this qualification in this field. Anita is 1 of 5 practising Specialist Women’s, Men’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapists in Melbourne.

  • Your initial consultation is 60 minutes and involves a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle factors, all as guided by your goals.

    A physical assessment to further explore the contributing factors to your issues will be explored. This may include external examination and, where clinically appropriate, an internal pelvic floor assessment. All examinations are always discussed beforehand and are only performed with your informed consent.

    Following assessment, we will collaboratively decide on a personalised management plan and ensure you have a clear understanding of the next steps.

  • No. An internal examination is not always required.

    It may be discussed as an option if clinically relevant, as it allows detailed assessment of pelvic floor function. However, it is entirely your choice. Alternatives will always be discussed, and your care will always be guided by your consent and comfort.

  • Comfortable clothing that allows ease of movement is recommended. You may be asked to perform simple functional movements as part of your assessment, so flexible clothing is helpful.

  • Initial consultations are 60 minutes to allow adequate time for assessment and discussion.

    Follow-up appointments are typically 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your individual needs.

  • Yes. You are welcome to bring a support person with you.

  • Yes, of course you are welcome to bring your baby or children to your appointment. However, please note that they always remain your responsibility during your visit.

  • Yes, absolutely. The East Melbourne & Parkville rooms are accessible via lift.

    The Dandenong rooms are only accessible via staircase however, we have a dedicated, secure pram parking area on the ground floor where your pram can be locked if you need to bring it. Please let us know beforehand if you need this facility so that we are there to welcome you on the ground floor.

  • If you have private health insurance with physiotherapy extras cover, you may be eligible for a rebate.

    Rebates vary depending on your policy, so we recommend confirming your level of cover directly with your insurer.

  • Medicare rebates may be available if you have a valid Chronic Condition Management Plan (formerly EPC) from your GP.

    A referral must be provided prior to your appointment in order to process a Medicare claim.

  • Yes. We accept Chronic Condition Management Plans issued by your GP.

    Please ensure your referral documentation is provided before or at the time of your appointment so we can facilitate the appropriate rebate process.

  • No, we do not offer bulk billing.

    Payment is required at the time of your appointment. If you are attending under a valid Chronic Condition Management Plan, you may claim the applicable Medicare rebate to cover part of the cost of the appointment. You will still have an out-of-pocket expense.

    If you have any questions regarding fees or rebates, please contact us prior to booking.

  • Please let us know if you need to reschedule an appointment at your earliest convenience so we can allow other patients to book in as required. A minimum of 24 hours notice is required for all appointment changes. Cancellations made within 24 hours may incur a cancellation fee. We appreciate your understanding.

  • Yes! Having your period does not prevent assessment or treatment. In fact, sometimes symptoms can be affected by menstruation and being able to assess and manage this impact can be very useful. We will also discuss what level of assessment and treatment you are most comfortable with on the day.

  • If you are experiencing symptoms of illness, please contact us prior to your appointment.

    If you are unable to attend in person within the late-notice period, we’re happy to offer a telehealth appointment at your scheduled time so you can still benefit from your session.

  • If you are running late, please contact us as soon as possible.

    Your appointment time may need to be shortened to avoid impacting other scheduled clients. Missed appointments or very late arrivals may incur a fee in accordance with our cancellation policy.

Do you have More questions?

If you have any additional questions, please feel welcome to contact us. We aim to respond within two business days.

If you’re ready to book, you can schedule your appointment online through our secure booking portal or contact us directly.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Pelvic Health Co.