Pelvic Physiotherapy in Trans Health

Overview

This introductory course on pelvic physiotherapy in transgender health provides clinicians with the knowledge and tools to deliver affirming, evidence-based care across the gender transition journey.

Led by Céleste Corkery, and hosted by Pelvic Health Solutions, this course explores the critical role of pelvic physiotherapy in both surgical and non-surgical care for transgender individuals. Drawing on clinical experience from Women’s College Hospital, it highlights a multidisciplinary approach to supporting patients through transition-related procedures such as vaginoplasty, phalloplasty, and metoidioplasty.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of pre- and post-operative rehabilitation, including pelvic floor function, scar management, and dilation protocols, as well as broader considerations such as the impact of binding, tucking, and systemic barriers to care.

With a strong emphasis on respectful communication, cultural competence, and patient-centered practice, this course equips clinicians to provide safe, inclusive, and effective pelvic health care for transgender and gender-diverse populations.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Use appropriate, respectful terminology related to gender identity and expression

2. Describe common gender-affirming surgical procedures and their functional implications

3. Understand the role of pelvic physiotherapy in pre- and post-operative care

4. Apply strategies for optimizing pelvic floor function prior to surgery

5. Implement post-operative rehabilitation techniques, including scar management and dilation support

6. Identify and manage common surgical complications in collaboration with the care team

7. Recognize the pelvic health impacts of practices such as binding and tucking

8. Deliver culturally competent, affirming care for transgender individuals

9. Address psychosocial and systemic barriers affecting access to care

10. Integrate multidisciplinary and patient-centered approaches into clinical practice

Audience

This course is designed for healthcare professionals working in pelvic health, rehabilitation, and gender-affirming care, including:

• Physiotherapists

• Pelvic health therapists

• Occupational therapists

• Physicians and surgeons involved in gender-affirming care

• Healthcare providers seeking to build competency in transgender health

Why This Course Matters

Transgender and gender-diverse individuals often face significant barriers to accessing safe, knowledgeable, and affirming healthcare. Many clinicians report limited training in this area, particularly regarding the role of pelvic physiotherapy in transition-related care.

This course addresses that gap by:

• Providing practical, evidence-based guidance for pre- and post-surgical care

• Building confidence in discussing sensitive topics with respect and clarity

• Highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration

• Supporting clinicians in delivering inclusive, patient-centered care

By improving clinical competency and cultural awareness, healthcare providers can play a meaningful role in improving both physical and psychosocial outcomes for transgender patients.

Continue Your Learning

If you’re looking to build a strong foundation in transgender and gender-diverse pelvic health care, consider pairing this course with:

Introductory Pelvic Health Care for Trans and Gender Diverse People

Also taught by Céleste Corkery and hosted by Pelvic Health Solutions, this foundational course provides essential knowledge for clinicians newer to this area of practice. It covers inclusive terminology, communication strategies, and core clinical considerations, including hormone therapy, surgical options, and pelvic physiotherapy care across the transition process.

Together, these courses offer a comprehensive learning pathway - from foundational principles to more advanced, surgery-specific pelvic health care.