This is an introductory course for pelvic rehab providers on gender affirming vaginoplasty GAV, the most common gender affirming genital surgery. Pelvic therapists have a role in optimizing outcomes following this surgery. An overview of the two most common surgeries and surgeon directed protocols will be discussed.

This class will aim to help participants: 

• List the two most common types of GAV and their components
• Describe three parameters of dilation protocols relative to healing
• Choose positions for dilation that facilitate relaxation of the PFM

In the US over 3000 vaginoplasties are performed annually.  Access to gender affirming vaginoplasty is primarily in large metropolitan areas, yet people having these surgeries live in all parts of the country.  Many will need support for healing, pain control, return to activity and progression with dilation. Pelvic therapists are well positioned to optimize outcomes for these patients.

About Dr. Sandra Gallagher, PT, DPT

Sandi is a pelvic health physical therapist in Portland OR. Her practice includes providing evaluation and treatment of pelvic health conditions in adults and children of all gender identities. Dr. Gallagher received her primary physical therapy training in 1986 with a BS in Physical Therapy from the University of Lowell in Massachusetts. She has pursued varied continuing education from manual therapy, Feldenkrais, biophysical agents, pelvic health, and pregnancy. She completed her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in June 2020. She has served on varied committees and boards at the state and national level, including as the chair of the CAPP-OB Committee for the Academy of Pelvic Health of the APTA.  She has presented on the role of PT in gender affirming vaginoplasty at UCSF Transgender Health Summit, APTA Combined Sections Meeting, and at the 2018 international meeting of the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).  She is the recipient of the 2020 Elizabeth Noble Award from the Academy of Pelvic Health.