pelvic health specialization + tips for patients seeking a pelvic physio

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With so many individuals interested in the pelvic health profession these days, I’d like to illuminate the many paths toward specialization in the United States. I’ll also share a few tips for patients in their search for pelvic health specialist providers.

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What does it take to become a specialist pelvic health physical therapist in the US?

First step: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). This involves a 4 year bachelor + 3 year graduate school (or 6 year combined BS/DPT program). Next steps: “Specializing”. The short answer is there is a large inconsistency between level of training and experience in those who call themselves “pelvic health specialists” in the world of pelvic health in the United States. Some providers are board certified specialists, some are residency trained, while others are certified by various post-professional institutions. I’ll break it down below.

Here are some credentials to look out for with an explanation below describing what they each entail:

  • Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist (WCS)

  • Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS)

  • Certificate of Achievement in Obstetric Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB)

  • Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic)

  • Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification (PRPC)

Board-Certified Women's Health Clinical Specialist (WCS) and Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS) are the two most commonly seen specialties serving pelvic health patients. Some of the individuals who earn these designations complete a post professional clinical residency that typically lasts 9-12 months as part of their training. These board specialties are overseen by the American Board of Physical Therapist Specialties. WCS and OCS candidates must submit evidence of 2,000 hours of direct patient care as a licensed United States physical therapist in the specialty area OR successfully complete an APTA-accredited post professional clinical residency. They must also submit a case study and pass an exam in order to qualify. Search the APTA Pelvic Health Provider Directory

Certificate of Achievement in Obstetric Physical Therapy (CAPP-OB) and Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (CAPP-Pelvic) are awarded via the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) “…to licensed Physical Therapists who complete a series of comprehensive evidence-based education courses, written and clinical testing at each level and a written case report rigorously reviewed by the CAPP Case Reflection Committee.” Search the CAPP Provider Directory

Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification (PRPC) is awarded by the Herman & Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute “…to those therapists who successfully apply to sit for the exam and receive a passing score on the computer-administered multiple-choice examination. Clinicians who earn this certification may amend their professional title and all accompanying documentation… with the letters "PRPC" to distinguish themselves as an expert in the field of pelvic rehabilitation.” Search the PRPC Provider Directory

my path? 


After earning my DPT I signed up for courses with the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy. I obtained a CAPP-OB and was working on the pelvic series with a goal of sitting for the WCS board examination. Now that I’m in the Netherlands, things are a little different (but that’s a story for another day).

tips for patients

For patients who are seeking support from a pelvic physical therapist, geography and/or insurance coverage can often be limiting factors. Telehealth is becoming increasingly available, though not all pelvic health conditions are best treated through remote support. But let’s be honest, sometimes stepping through the door is the hardest part. So many folks with pelvic health issues don’t realize they can receive support to improve their quality of life, are too embarrassed to speak up, are gaslit when they do dare to share, or don’t get prompt referrals to appropriate providers. Doing a little search ahead of time and asking for a referral can make a huge difference. Hopefully the above information clues you in on which credentials to look for.

While weighing in the value of provider education and experience has its merits, please know that a provider is so much more than the alphabet soup behind their name. You may want to ask your potential physical therapist about their experience providing care for your particular symptoms or condition, and ask about success stories and challenges to help guide your choice.

Even if the provider seems to have the perfect CV, know that your sense of therapeutic alliance with your therapist is likely to be much more important than their credentials. Just like no two patients are alike, no two physical therapists are alike. If you aren’t vibing with your therapist or not progressing toward your goals, you are always worthy of a second opinion. Take your time to meet your match and be persistent. YOU DESERVE IT.

▽ Don’t hesitate to take me up on your free discovery session to learn if virtual wellness consultations are right for you. I’m happy to help you find what you’re looking for or refer you to a provider in your area if in person treatment is indicated.