Interstitial Cystitis

What Is Interstitial Cystitis?

Interstitial cystitis (or IC) is a chronic condition causing bladder symptoms including bladder pressure, bladder pain, urinary frequency, urinary urgency and pelvic pain. The symptoms of IC may vary from person to person, and even from day to day within the same person.

Triggers such as certain foods and drinks, stress, and sexual activity can cause your symptoms to flare up. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can have a long lasting impact on quality of life.

Because it is a chronic condition, there is no cure. However, medications and other therapies may offer you relief, and some people may even experience symptom free periods.

Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Are you experiencing any of the following:

• Chronic bladder and/or pelvic pain
• Urgent need to urinate
• Frequent urination, often of small amounts, throughout the day and night (up to 60 times a day)
• Pain or discomfort while the bladder fills and relief after urinating.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.

If so, please contact Urogynecology of Kansas City for evaluation and to discuss treatment options that are right for you.