Question 1

Do I have to do an internal pelvic exam on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

Never. Internal evaluations are always optional and performed only with your explicit consent. As an Occupational Therapist, my approach looks at your whole body—including your posture, breathing patterns, movement habits, nervous system, and daily routines. We can make incredible progress through external assessment, movement analysis, and functional training without ever doing an internal exam if you aren't comfortable with one.

Question 2

What is the difference between an Occupational Therapist (OT) and a Physical Therapist (PT) for pelvic health?

Accepted Answer

While both OTs and PTs receive specialized pelvic floor training, OT brings a holistic, daily-life focus. We don't just look at pelvic floor muscle strength; we evaluate how your symptoms intersect with your daily routines, stress levels, sleep, ergonomics (like holding or nursing a baby), nutrition, and nervous system regulation. The goal is returning you to seamless, confident daily living.

Question 3

Can I bring my baby or children to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! As a perinatal practice, HerPath is built to be a welcoming, low-stress space for moms. You are welcome to bring your baby or young child to your session. Feeding, soothing, or holding your baby during your evaluation fits naturally into how we assess functional movement and ergonomics.

Question 4

What conditions can pelvic floor OT help with?

Accepted Answer

We treat a wide spectrum of symptoms, including urinary urgency or leakage, pelvic pain (including endometriosis and painful intimacy), pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis recti, constipation, tailbone pain, and pregnancy or postpartum recovery.

Question 5

How does Occupational Therapy support fertility and birth prep?

Accepted Answer

Fertility-focused OT addresses the physical and systemic environment of your pelvis. We use targeted visceral work, pelvic alignment, blood flow optimization, nervous system downregulation (reducing cycle stress), and lifestyle/nutrition adjustments to optimize your body for conception—whether trying naturally or preparing for IUI/IVF.

Question 6

When during pregnancy should I start pelvic floor therapy?

Accepted Answer

You can start at any point during your pregnancy! Early-to-mid pregnancy is ideal for managing pelvic pain, maintaining core stability, and learning proper breathing mechanics. Third-trimester sessions (around 28–34 weeks) focus heavily on birth preparation, labor positioning, perineal massage techniques, and setting up a smooth postpartum recovery environment.

Question 7

Why are you a private-pay / cash-based clinic?

Accepted Answer

Being cash-based allows me to deliver 100% focused, 60-minute, 1-on-1 care without insurance companies dictating how many sessions you get, forcing quick 15-minute visits, or restricting care to a single body part. This high-touch model gets clients better results in fewer total visits, saving you time and long-term costs.

Question 8

Do you accept insurance or provide Superbills?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due at the time of service, but I can provide you with an itemized Superbill (out-of-network receipt) upon request. You can submit this to your insurance provider for potential out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your plan. You can also use HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) funds to pay for your care.

Question 9

Do I need a doctor's referral to schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

No, California allows direct access to Occupational Therapy care, meaning you can book an initial evaluation without waiting for a doctor's referral. If medical coordination is needed during your care, I am happy to collaborate directly with your OB-GYN, midwife, or primary physician.

Question 10

Where are your clinic locations?

Accepted Answer

HerPath sees clients in both Visalia (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 115 N Valley Oaks Dr) and Hanford (Mondays at Kindred Care, 340 W 8th St). You can book online via Jane App or contact the office directly for scheduling.

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