These modules are an essential part of your care at the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic.
Please complete Modules 1-5 before your first appointment. This involves 2 hours of online videos. You should watch the videos at your own pace, pause and come back later whenever you need to. We recommend spreading this task over more than one day due to the amount of information contained!
Module 6 "The Brain & Pain" is not compulsory to watch prior to your appointment. It contains wonderful information from our psychologist Melissa about the mental health aspects of chronic pain and how pain involves the nervous system and brain.
For each module:
Have a look at the physio workbook and decide if you would like to print it out to use for note-taking while watching the modules
Watch the videos (the duration of each video is listed to help you plan ahead)
Keep a list of questions/ issues that you would like to discuss in your appointment
Once you have completed Modules 1 to 5, please fill in the Education Modules Completion form. This lets our team know you are ready for your first appointment. We will then be in touch.
IF YOU ARE HAVING TROUBLE...
Everyone learns differently and has different backgrounds and language skills. If watching these modules is not working for you, please let us know so we understand how to assist; perhaps you may require a translator and/or more time allocated in appointments. We love working with anyone and everyone, so please don't be shy in letting us know it's not working for you, so that we can help!
In this 30-minute module you will learn what persistent pelvic pain is, common symptoms and the different reasons it can occur. The video explains how doctors make a diagnosis, which tests or scans may be used and the main treatment options. It also introduces the value of multidisciplinary care where different members of the team work together to support you moving forward. The presenter is Professor Susan Evans, one of Australia's leading pelvic pain gynaecologists and pain specialists.
In these modules you will learn how pelvic health physiotherapy can help with pelvic pain. The videos explain the role of the pelvic floor muscles, pelvic organs, nerves and the nervous system, common muscle related symptoms and what to expect when you see a pelvic health physiotherapist. It also introduces strategies you can start at home to help calm muscles and work towards your physical goals. The presenter is pelvic health physiotherapist Amelia Godfrey who worked at our clinic and has a special interest in pelvic pain.
In this first of 5 physio modules, pelvic health physiotherapist Amelia introduces the physio modules and workbook. Module 2 then discusses symptoms and the key drivers of pelvic pain. The pelvic floor is then discussed in detail and its role in pain. This module finishes with pelvic floor down-training exercises through breath work, relaxation and stretches. (30 minutes)
Physio Module 3 starts the discussion about pelvic organs. This module focuses on bowels and their crucial role in pelvic pain. (20 minutes)
Physio Module 4 focuses on the vagina and pelvic floor. It moves straight into body stretches and positions to relax the vagina and pelvic floor. The use of TENS machines is described. (17 minutes)
Physio Module 5 is the final physio module. The role of tracking your cycle is explained and how it may help you plan for different times of the month. The nervous system is then discussed and its role in pain. A body scan relaxation exercise is introduced as an example of how to calm an overactivated nervous system. The modules finish with a summary of the key causes of pelvic pain and how an effective management plan will address each area. The benefit of a flare plan is mentioned. And a final reference to the workbook is made including the list of resources recommended. (16 minutes)
This optional workbook contains some of the graphics from the physiotherapy modules and additional helpful information put together by pelvic health physiotherapist Amelia. You can use it to do activities that are mentioned in the modules and reflect on your own symptoms and priorities.
You can read it online or print it.
In this module you will learn how the brain, nervous system and emotions are involved in ongoing pain. The video explains how pain is processed in the brain, why the pain system can stay switched on, and how factors such as stress, mood, sleep and past experiences can affect pain levels. It also introduces ideas such as central sensitisation, boom–bust cycles, pacing, self regulation tools, communication and boundaries, and self compassion. The aim is to help you make sense of your symptoms and feel more confident using practical strategies to support your nervous system. The presenter is Melissa Harding, clinical psychologist, who is available for Telehealth appointments at Northside in the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic or privately.
Thank-you for taking the time to complete the education modules.
Please complete the short form below to confirm that you have finished Modules 1 to 5. You will have already received by email two intake questionnaires (SnapForms) with details about your symptoms and history. These must be completed to allow our clinic to triage your appointment. After we receive your SnapForms intake questionnaires, we will contact you to make your first appointment.
That's it, you have finished!
Thank-you! Our team will be in touch soon. Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries.