Interstitial Cystitis (Painful Bladder Syndrome)

Description

A chronic, painful bladder condition. It's a feeling of pain and pressure in the bladder area. Along with this pain, you may have lower urinary tract symptoms that have lasted for 6 weeks or longer, without having an infection or other clear cause.

Common Symptoms

• Pain in your pelvis or between the vagina and anus in women or between the scrotum and anus in men (perineum)
• Chronic pelvic pain
• A persistent, urgent need to urinate
• Frequent urination, often of small amounts, throughout the day and night

Common Causes

• The exact cause isn't known, but it's likely that many factors contribute. There may be a defect in the protective lining (epithelium) of the bladder.

Treatment Information