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I am often asked what I think about OTC supplements and their use by IC patients. I never anticipated selling supplements via the ICN website because I was focused on patient education and research. That changed in the early 2000's when some doctors began telling patients that the only treatment for IC/BPS was Interstim®, [...]

Interstitial cystitis (bladder pain syndrome) is a complex pelvic pain syndrome that is sometimes difficult for patients and their providers to treat. Why? Because the symptoms that you associate with your bladder and IC can be caused by things outside of your bladder wall. Yes, really! Having to use the restroom every 30 minutes [...]

Going on vacation is exciting. You get to explore new places, have a break from your normal routine and maybe even try some IC friendly new foods. But, it can also be overwhelming as you try to figure out what to bring along. What if you get caught by a flare? Do you have [...]

Of all the things we discuss for potential causes of IC, metal allergy hasn't been high on the list. In fact, it doesn't usually even make the list. However, Liz Anderson, an IC patient from Northern California, says her nickel allergy is most likely the root cause of all her IC symptoms. Resolving the [...]

Have you ever fallen on your tailbone? Were you an ice skater, gymnast or football player and experienced multiple falls? Even one fall could play a role in your IC/BPS symptoms today. Now that we know to ask about tail bone injuries, we’ve found that they are remarkably common in the IC patient population. [...]

For years now, we've known IC and pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) go hand-in-hand. Many patients have overly tight pelvic floor muscles that at least contribute to their pelvic pain. Treating PFD is important. It typically starts with pelvic floor physical therapy and can eventually include vaginal suppositories or trigger point injections. If nothing else [...]