Bladder Pain Syndrome / Interstitial Cystitis

Interstitial cystitis (IC) or bladder pain syndrome (BPS) is a debilitating chronic pain and/or pressure that can affect the bladder, urethra and vagina.

Bladder Pain Syndrome is often poorly understood leading to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of a bladder infection. BPS is not caused by bacteria and therefore it does not respond to antibiotics, it is a chronic inflammatory condition of the bladder wall.

Symptoms of Bladder Pain Syndrome include increased frequency, urgency and bladder (pelvic) pain with a range of severity. 

In mild cases, frequency may be the only problem whereas in severe cases, there are often a multitude of symptoms:

Increased frequency with up to 60 times in a 24 hour period

An urgent need to urinate day & night 

Pain and pressure in the pelvis, bladder, urethra & vagina

A characteristic increase in pain with urination

Symptoms may increase during menstruation

Symptoms may also increase with stress.

We have excellent, effective treatments for Bladder Pain Syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment can help control the symptoms and alleviate chronic suffering, which many patients endure over many years.

Treatments are always individualised to the patient and their presenting symptoms. As well as looking at pelvic floor function, treatment may also include behavioural therapy, acupuncture and diet.

If you would like to discuss any of your symptoms with our Women’s Health Physiotherapists or would like to make an appointment, please contact the clinic.