Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome in Charlottesville, VA

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What is Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome?

Interstitial cystitis, also known as bladder pain syndrome, is a persistent condition that causes pain and pressure in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area along with other urinary symptoms such as urgency and frequency. Unlike a urinary tract infection, interstitial cystitis is not caused by bacteria, and symptoms often persist despite treatments that typically help UTIs. People with interstitial cystitis may experience a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe bladder pain, and these symptoms can interfere with daily life and activities. We do not actually like the term interstitial cystitis because it originated to indicate inflammation of the bladder (hence the term cystitis meaning bladder inflammation), when in reality most patients don’t actually have signs of bladder inflammation. Bladder Pain Syndrome is a more accurate name.

Interstitial cystitis can affect anyone, but it is more common in women. Individuals with a history of chronic pelvic pain, urinary tract infections, or other bladder-related issues may be at higher risk. If you experience persistent bladder pain or urinary urgency without an obvious infection, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist.

Symptoms of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

Symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary from person to person but may include:

Bladder pain, burning or discomfort
Frequent urination, often in small amounts (urinary frequency)
A constant urge to urinate (urinary urgency)
Pelvic pain, pressure, or tenderness

These symptoms can come and go, with flare-ups that make the condition more difficult to manage.

Causes of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

The causes can be varied and sometimes no definitive causes identified. Obvious causes include injury from surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Some research suggests that problems with the nerves that transmit bladder pain signals are involved. The condition is also associated with other pelvic pain syndromes, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or endometriosis, which may be the source of increased pain nerve signals. 10% of patients have ulcerative lesions, what are called Hunner ulcers, as a source of symptoms. Most commonly, we commonly find there is a myofascial origin that is linked to the pelvic floor muscles.

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What are the Risks of Untreated Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome?

There are no life threatening risks associated with this condition, nor any association with cancer. Untreated interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome can lead to worsening symptoms, such as increased bladder pain and urinary urgency, which may significantly impact your quality of life. Over time bladder symptoms can become more intense, making daily activities difficult. Chronic pain can also affect mental health, leading to stress or anxiety. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing or eliminating symptoms and improving quality of life.

What To Expect During Your Appointment

During your visit, your gynecologist will review your symptoms, conduct a pelvic exam, and may perform tests to rule out conditions like bladder cancer or a urinary tract infection. Treatments for Bladder Pain Syndrome may include:

Medications to reduce bladder pain or inflammation
Bladder instillations (therapy applied directly to the bladder)
Pelvic floor physical therapy

Your gynecologist will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that fits your specific needs and helps manage your symptoms effectively.

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Why Choose The Center For Advanced Gynecology

The Center for Advanced Gynecology, established in 2018, is dedicated to improving your health by offering expertise in various areas, with a specific focus on gynecological care and advanced surgical techniques when surgery is needed.

Our team provides specialized expertise in non-surgical treatment of chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, pudendal neuralgia, and vaginal, vulvar, and bladder pain.

Since opening our doors, we have recognized the need in our community for more than just specialty care and have a growing practice in routine gynecologic care, cancer screening, Pap smears, menopausal management, hormonal imbalances, hormone replacement therapy, breast care, contraceptive care, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Interstitial cystitis and urinary tract infections (UTIs) can have similar symptoms, such as bladder pain and urinary urgency. However, interstitial cystitis is a persistent condition, not caused by bacteria, while UTIs are bacterial infections in the urinary tract. Your gynecologist can help determine the difference through proper diagnosis and testing, ensuring you receive the right treatment for your symptoms.

The lining of the bladder may become inflamed in some but not all people with interstitial cystitis, which can contribute to bladder pain syndrome. This inflammation can make the bladder more sensitive, leading to pain or discomfort, especially as the bladder fills with urine. The bladder wall also consists of nerves and a muscle called the detrusor which can also play a role in bladder pain. Some treatments focus on healing or soothing the bladder lining can help reduce symptoms.

Painful bladder syndrome, another term for interstitial cystitis, includes symptoms like bladder pain, urinary urgency, frequent urination, incontinence, and difficulty emptying your bladder. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go. If you experience ongoing discomfort or bladder issues, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate the nerves and reduce bladder pain. This therapy can be helpful for individuals with chronic pelvic or bladder pain, as it disrupts the pain signals sent to the brain. TENS is a non-invasive option that can be used as part of a broader treatment plan.

There is no direct link between interstitial cystitis and bladder cancer. However, because both conditions can cause similar symptoms, such as bladder pain and urinary urgency, it's essential to rule out bladder cancer through diagnostic testing. If you have concerns, your gynecologist will discuss the appropriate tests and screenings.