Southern Urogynecology purple and blue logo

Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS)

a drawing of a blue flower with white petals on a white background .

What is Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS)?

Interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome (IC/PBS) is one of several conditions that causes bladder pain and a need to urinate frequently and urgently. Some doctors have started using the term bladder pain syndrome (BPS) to describe this condition.


Signs you may have bladder problems include:


Urgency: the feeling that you need to go right now! Urgency is normal if you haven’t been near a bathroom for a few hours or if you have been drinking a lot of fluids. But you may have a problem if you have strong urges before your bladder has had time to fill. All of a sudden, you feel a strong urge to go. At times, you may even have an accident because the urge strikes so quickly you don’t have time to find a bathroom.


Frequency: the feeling that you need to go much more often than anyone else. Doctors and nurses use the term void, which means to empty the bladder. Most people void between four and seven times a day. Drinking large amounts of fluid can cause more frequent voiding. Taking blood pressure medicines called diuretics, or water pills, can also cause more frequent voiding. If you void more than eight times a day, and you don’t take diuretics or drink large amounts of fluid, it may be the sign of a problem.


Pain: the feeling of more than discomfort when you need to go. Having a full bladder may be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. You may have a problem if you feel burning or sharp pain in your bladder or urethra - the opening where urine leaves the body. Some people may have pain without urgency or frequency. Others have urgency and frequency without pain. 

an illustration of a woman 's kidneys and urinary system

If you are experiencing painful bladder symptoms, please schedule a consultation with Drs. Pezzella and Rueb today.

 Call us at (803) 956-9928 or

Schedule Consultation

Treatments for Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS)?

Medications


There are numerous medications that can be used to help manage the symptoms of interstitial cystitis (IC). It's important to note that different medications may work differently for each individual, and the treatment plan should be personalized based on the severity of symptoms and individual response. Please contact Drs. Pezzella and Rueb today for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


Learn more about this condition and treatment and medication options:

https://www.ichelp.org/

Frequently asked questions about Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS)?

  • What is Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS)?

    Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome (IC/PBS) is a chronic condition that causes recurring pelvic pain and urinary symptoms. It is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bladder wall.

  • What are the common symptoms of IC/PBS?

    Common symptoms include bladder pain or discomfort, urinary urgency, frequency, nocturia (frequent urination at night), and pain during sexual intercourse. Some individuals may also experience pelvic pain or pressure.

  • What causes IC/PBS?

    The exact cause of IC/PBS is unknown. It is believed to involve a combination of factors, including abnormalities in the bladder lining, defects in the protective mucosal lining, problems with the immune system, and nerve dysfunction.

  • Is IC/PBS more common in women?

    IC/PBS affects both men and women, but it is more common in women. Women are diagnosed with IC/PBS at a ratio of approximately 9 to 1 compared to men.

  • How is IC/PBS diagnosed?

    There is no specific test to diagnose IC/PBS. Diagnosis is made based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, ruling out other conditions, and certain diagnostic procedures such as a cystoscopy, urinary bladder biopsy, or potassium sensitivity test.

  • Can IC/PBS be cured?

    At present, there is no known cure for IC/PBS. However, there are various treatment options available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, bladder training, medications, physical therapy, nerve stimulation, and in some cases, surgery.

  • Are there any specific triggers for IC/PBS symptoms?

    Triggers can vary from person to person, but common triggers include certain foods and beverages (e.g., caffeine, alcohol, acidic foods), stress, hormonal changes, urinary tract infections, and certain types of physical activity.


  • Can IC/PBS affect fertility or pregnancy?

    IC/PBS typically does not directly affect fertility or pregnancy. However, the symptoms may become more challenging to manage during pregnancy due to the limitations on medications that can be used. Please contact Dr. Pezzella and her team today.  They can provide an accurate diagnosis, offer appropriate treatment options, and address any concerns you may have, especially if you are planning to conceive or are already pregnant.


  • Is IC/PBS a progressive condition?

    IC/PBS is considered a chronic condition, meaning that it tends to last for a long time. However, the severity of symptoms can vary over time, and some individuals experience periods of remission where symptoms improve or disappear.


  • Can IC/PBS increase the risk of other health conditions?

    IC/PBS is not known to directly increase the risk of other health conditions. However, the chronic pain and urinary symptoms associated with IC/PBS can impact a person's quality of life and emotional well-being. It is important to manage symptoms and seek appropriate support.


a drawing of a blue flower with white petals on a white background .

If you experience bladder pain symptoms, please contact our office to make an appointment with our team. You don’t have to suffer!

 Call us at (803) 457-7000 or

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Share by: