Interstitial Cystitis

Also known as painful bladder syndrome, interstitial cystitis causes pelvic pain or pressure and the frequent urge to urinate.

About Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis is a chronic, painful bladder condition that causes bladder pressure, bladder pain and pelvic pain among other symptoms that can affect your daily life, sleep and ability to work. Symptoms vary from person to person and my range from mild to severe. Although there is no cure for interstitial cystitis, there are a variety of treatment options available to relieve symptoms.

Treating Interstitial Cystitis at UT Medicine 

In your initial exam, your clinician may conduct a pelvic examination and any other additional screenings that may help rule out any other conditions that may be causing you problems. Based on your evaluation, your care team will discuss possible treatment options that best suit you and your goals. More conservative treatment approaches are often used first including lifestyle modifications and medications to help provide relief and manage symptoms. Physical therapy is also an option used to strengthen the pelvic muscles to help reduce pain. Regardless of your treatment, your care team will work with you to understand the risk and benefits and what you can expect throughout your care.