Frequently asked questions
Accessing our services
You can book directly through our online portal without a doctor’s note or referral. We currently have clinics in Ipswich, Colchester and Eye but can serve the wider Suffolk area at home, providing assessments for joint, muscle and pelvic health symptoms or conditions such as sciatica, sports injuries, and back pain.
Yes. Some assessments and follow up appointments can be delivered remotely, depending on your symptoms and clinical needs. Contact us for more details.
We offer rapid-access appointments across Suffolk, with early availability designed to support timely assessment and treatment. If you are also considering NHS physiotherapy, the NHS provides excellent, evidence-based care, however, availability and waiting times can vary by service and area. Our private option can be helpful when you would prefer to be seen sooner or need appointment times that fit around work and family life.
No, you do not need a GP referral to see a private physiotherapist in the UK. We are “first-contact practitioners,” meaning we are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat your condition directly. If we suspect your issue requires further investigation, we will provide a clinical letter to your GP.
No. While many patients are referred via AHP Suffolk or the Finn Clinic to the NHS (which provides excellent, evidence-based pelvic health care), you can also book a private assessment directly with us. Private appointments can be a good option if you would like earlier availability, longer appointment times, or more flexible scheduling for non-urgent pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Many health insurance policies do cover private physiotherapy under their “outpatient” benefits. We recommend checking directly with your insurance provider to confirm your level of cover and their reimbursement requirements. We are happy to provide a detailed invoice or supporting letter after your appointment, which you can submit to your insurer if your policy allows.
Who we treat and how we help
Yes. We support all genders and treat men with pelvic health concerns such as pelvic pain, bladder and bowel issues, and continence problems, where clinically appropriate.
That’s very common. Your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms, explain what is going on in clear, straightforward language, and help you understand your options.
Yes. Changes in hormone levels can lead to “Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause” (GSM), causing vaginal dryness, urgency, or frequency. We provide tailored exercises and lifestyle advice that work alongside (or instead of) HRT to improve tissue health and pelvic support. Perimenopause and menopause can also affect bladder control, pelvic floor strength, vaginal comfort and sexual wellbeing. We provide individualised pelvic health physiotherapy tailored to your life stage and symptoms.
We provide the Mummy MOT, a specialist postnatal assessment in our Ipswich clinic. We assess your posture, abdominal gap (diastasis recti), and pelvic floor to ensure a safe return to exercise. Click here to find out more in our article.
Yes. The Mummy MOT is a specialist postnatal check recommended from 6 weeks to many years after childbirth. Our Suffolk-based practitioners are fully certified to perform these assessments. It is a gold-standard private alternative to the standard 6-week GP check. Read more here.
While leaking (urinary incontinence) is common, it is not “normal” and you don’t have to live with it. Whether you are 6 weeks or 10 years postnatal, pelvic health physiotherapy can effectively treat the underlying muscle weakness or coordination issues, often removing the need for surgery.
What to expect at your appointment
For a thorough assessment, your physiotherapist may need to see the affected area. For example, please bring shorts for a knee or hip injury, or a vest top for shoulder and neck issues. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily, such as:
- Leggings, shorts or loose‑fitting trousers
- A vest or t‑shirt
- Supportive underwear (especially for pelvic health appointments)
For pelvic health sessions, your clinician will talk you through everything and ensure you feel comfortable, informed and in control. You’re always welcome to bring a chaperone.
No. Physiotherapy should not be painful. Your treatment will be adapted to your comfort level, and you’ll always be guided at your own pace.
Your first session involves a detailed, confidential discussion about your symptoms (bladder, bowel, or pelvic pain). With your consent, a physical assessment is usually offered. This may include an internal examination to check muscle strength, coordination, and tissue health, but this is always optional.
Not necessarily. An internal pelvic floor assessment can be helpful for some people, but it is always optional. Your physiotherapist will explain the reasons for it and you decide whether to proceed.
Yes. You’re welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member to any appointment. Chaperones can be arranged when booking the appointment if appropriate.
Treatment & progress
Every recovery is different, it varies depending on your symptoms and goals. Many people notice meaningful improvements within 3–6 sessions, while long‑standing or complex issues may need longer support. You’ll receive a clear treatment plan after your first appointment.
Yes. Personalised home exercises usually form part of your treatment plan to support progress between sessions and long term results.
Everyone responds differently. Some people notice changes within a few weeks, while research shows lasting strength improvements typically occur from around 8 weeks onwards. Consistency is key for best results.
We offer a range of additional support services to help you throughout your treatment journey. This includes specialist classes and rehabilitation sessions led by experienced instructors, focusing on areas such as post-operative recovery, strength and conditioning, mobility, and overall physical wellbeing.
Medication, safety & confidentiality
No. Physiotherapists at wellbeing that works do not prescribe medication. For medication advice, please speak with a pharmacist or your GP.
Yes. All consultations follow strict clinical confidentiality and professional governance under AHP Suffolk CIC policies.
Yes. You’re welcome to bring a partner, friend or family member to any appointment. Chaperones can be arranged when booking the appointment if appropriate.
Costs and professional standards
Fees vary depending on appointment type and length. Please contact us directly or visit our Pricing page for the most up to date information.
Yes. All physiotherapists are HCPC registered. See individuals bios for more information.
No, we are not an NHS service. We are a privately funded provider offering an alternative option for those seeking greater flexibility around work, family commitments, and appointment availability.
The NHS delivers excellent, evidence-based care; however, access and waiting times can vary depending on the service and location. Our approach allows patients to choose more convenient scheduling and personalised support.