Bladder pain can be a frustrating and complex issue, with causes ranging from UTIs to interstitial cystitis (IC), bladder stones, or even nerve-related conditions. Many women go through multiple doctor visits before getting answers. If bladder pain is interfering with your daily life, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer in silence.

Interstitial cystitis (IC), or painful bladder syndrome, is one possible cause. Unlike UTIs, IC isn’t caused by bacteria, so standard antibiotics don’t help. Instead, women with IC often experience long-term bladder pressure, pain, and frequent urination, even when their bladder isn’t full. Many have seen providers multiple times for suspected UTIs, only to have negative test results.

Since IC is a “diagnosis of exclusion,” we’ll rule out other causes first. Testing might include specialized urine tests, imaging, or a cystoscopy (a procedure to examine the bladder, usually done under light anesthesia for women with pain).

IC treatment can be complex, but we take a layered approach, starting with conservative therapies like stress management, pelvic floor therapy, heat therapy, and dietary modifications. Supplements like D-Mannose, histamine blockers, and Bladder Ease may also help, depending on your IC pathway. If symptoms persist, we’ll explore additional treatments such as medications, bladder instillations, or advanced interventions. Our goal is to help you find real relief and regain your quality of life.