Frequently Asked Questions

Why Charleston Pelvic Health?

What makes
you different?

Charleston Pelvic Health is a solo, concierge pelvic health practice, which means you’ll always communicate directly with and receive care from Sarah Kate Orton, MSOT, OTR/L.

Every visit is one-on-one, personalized to your goals, and designed to fit into your real life. With convenient in-home care, our work is easier to apply where your life actually happens.

How does pelvic floor therapy at home make a difference?

In-home care allows us to address symptoms where they actually happen, whether that involves lifting your baby, getting out of bed, exercising, using your bathroom, or working at your desk.

It also eliminates the drive, waiting room, and shared clinic environment while allowing you to apply strategies directly within your own routines and space.

Can You Help Me?

Can you help my symptoms?

Charleston Pelvic Health supports all types of pelvic health related issues including pregnancy, postpartum recovery, bladder and bowel concerns, pelvic pain, prolapse, painful intimacy, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, PMOS, perimenopause, menopause, diastasis, scar recovery, and more.

If you’re unsure whether pelvic floor therapy is appropriate, call 843-256-6775 to speak directly with Sarah Kate about how she can help your specific situation.

I’ve already tried pelvic floor PT. Could you still help me?

Absolutely. Sarah Kate’s occupational therapy approach considers your whole body, environment, routines, stress, nervous system, and other factors that may have been previously overlooked. In-home care also allows us to practice and implement strategies directly within your daily life.

I’ve been told to just do Kegels.
Will that help?

Probably not. Isolated pelvic floor contractions miss the importance of being able to relax and lengthen your muscles, and many people aren’t able to do them correctly without guidance from a pelvic floor therapist.

For conditions such as pelvic pain, interstitial cystitis, constipation, pain with sex, and some bladder symptoms, isolated Kegels can actually make symptoms worse. This is why it is important to be assessed by a rehabilitation provider specifically trained in pelvic floor therapy.

I’m not having symptoms.
Can pelvic floor therapy help prevent future issues?

Yes. Pelvic floor therapy can be proactive and preventive, similar to an annual physical or women’s wellness exam, while also providing practical insight into your movement, habits, muscle function, and pelvic health.

Preventive visits can help you better understand your body, identify concerns early, and learn strategies that support ongoing health and wellness through pregnancy, postpartum, hormonal changes, exercise, and everyday life.

What to Expect

What is my first appointment like?

We’ll begin by talking through your story, symptoms, and goals in the comfort and privacy of your home.

Your first visit may include education, movement or breathing assessment, hands-on treatment, and practical strategies you can begin using right away.

How long are appointments?

Appointments are at least one hour, and initial evaluations may last up to 90 minutes. This allows enough time to listen, assess, treat, and make sure you understand your plan without feeling rushed.

Will I just be given exercises to do on my own?

No. Exercise may be one part of your plan, but treatment often focuses on better understanding your body, habit changes, symptom-management strategies, and movement practice with meaningful daily activities. Any home recommendations will be realistic and collaboratively designed to fit into your routine.

Internal Pelvic Floor Assessment

Do I have to have an internal pelvic floor assessment?

No. You always have a choice, and there are many other ways we can assess and address your pelvic floor muscles. If an internal assessment could be helpful, we’ll start externally, explain each step, and you may pause or stop at any time.

What is an internal pelvic floor assessment like?

An internal assessment is very different from a Pap smear at your gynecologist. There is no speculum, stirrups, or scratchy paper - your assessment can take place on a portable treatment table, your sofa, or even your bed. You can remain dressed from the waist up. If you choose to have an internal assessment, Sarah Kate gently uses one gloved, lubricated finger to assess how your muscles contract, relax, lengthen, and coordinate while laying down and standing.

Logistics

Do I need to see my physician or have a referral first?

No. You can begin occupational therapy services without first seeing your physician or obtaining a referral.
You can start care whenever you are ready and Sarah Kate is also happy to collaborate with your healthcare team when helpful.

When should I start pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy?

You can begin at any point during pregnancy, and you do not need to wait until you are having symptoms to benefit. Many women begin in the first or second trimester to improve body awareness, promote better habits, prevent discomfort, and prepare for birth and postpartum recovery.

Pelvic floor therapy can also help you learn to connect with, relax, and coordinate your pelvic floor, explore birth positions, and address any pain or symptoms that arise. Internal assessment is deferred until after 12 weeks.

How soon can I begin pelvic floor therapy after giving birth?

Charleston Pelvic Health encourages a postpartum check-in within the first week after delivery.

Early visits focus on safe movement, feeding positions, comfort, rest, pain management, and adapting your routines to support healing. As you recover, care progresses toward gentle core and pelvic floor connection, comfortable infant care, preventing or addressing aches and pains, and returning to your usual activities.

Is in-home care available
where I live?

In-home care is available in Daniel Island, Cainhoy, Mount Pleasant, Park Circle, downtown Charleston, and nearby areas within approximately 30 minutes of Clements Ferry Parkway and I-526.
Care outside this area may also be available depending on location and scheduling with an additional travel fee. Telehealth is available throughout SC.

How do I get started?

Call Charleston Pelvic Health at 843-256-6775. You’ll speak directly with Sarah Kate, who can answer your questions and schedule you for your evaluation. You can also request an appointment using the button below and Sarah Kate will contact you directly.