Entry level women’s health physiotherapy curricula in Australia

Abstract

Purpose Women’s health physiotherapy is an expanding area of physiotherapy practice. The purpose of this study was explore how graduates are prepared for practice within this area of physiotherapy. Methods An online survey was distributed to universities with a physiotherapy programme and recent physiotherapy graduates in Australia, in 2017. The responses were analysed for themes. Results There was information from 16 out the 20 physiotherapy courses in Australia in 2017. The number of hours involved in teach women’s health varied from 2 to 42. In some courses the content was integrated into other units such musculoskeletal and alongside men’s health. The content varied between courses but it was suggested that pelvic floor anatomy, incontinence, exercise during pregnancy and general exercises and osteoporosis were more likely to be covered. The management of mastitis and the role of the physiotherapist on the maternity ward were less likely to be taught. With pelvic organ prolapse as an example, anatomy and knowledge of treatment options were more likely to be covered than exercise recommendations and screening for symptoms. Conclusion The information from this study may assist with curriculum design in physiotherapy courses.