All Posts

Introduction When you live with Interstitial Cystitis (IC), symptoms can sometimes feel random or unpredictable. One day your bladder feels manageable, and the next you’re in the middle of a painful flare—wondering what changed? This is where journaling can make a real difference. By tracking symptoms, diet, emotions, and lifestyle factors, you can start to see patterns, identify triggers, and feel more in control. Journaling also offers emotional relief—a safe space to relea

If you’ve been told “your urine test is clear” while your bladder feels like it’s on fire, you are not  imagining it. You might already have read our basic overview: What is Interstitial Cystitis (IC) and Bladder Pain Syndrome? . That article explains what  IC/BPS is and how it’s diagnosed. This post goes a step deeper. Here, we’ll look at what’s actually happening inside your body  – in your bladder lining, pelvic floor and nervous system – so your symptoms start to make mor

When you live with interstitial cystitis (IC), every day can feel a little different. Keeping a simple symptom log  can help you notice what makes your symptoms better—or worse—over time. You don’t need fancy tools or long notes. Just a few quick lines each day can make a real difference in understanding your body. How to Start a Symptom Log for IC (Simple Daily Steps) Step 1: Choose how you’ll log Pick what feels easiest for you: A notebook or journal The notes app on your p

Introduction When you live with chronic pain from Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), it can sometimes feel like...

Introduction If you live with Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), you’ve probably discovered how challenging it can be to communicate your symptoms to doctors. Because IC doesn’t show up on a simple test, it’s often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. The truth is: you are the expert on your body , and the right questions can help your doctor understand your needs and guide you toward the best care. In this article, we’ll cover practical, empowering question

Introduction If your doctor suspects Interstitial Cystitis (IC) or Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), they may recommend a cystoscopy . Just hearing the word can feel intimidating, especially if you’re already dealing with pain and uncertainty. I want to reassure you: cystoscopy is a common test, and while it can sound overwhelming, understanding what to expect can make the experience less stressful. In this guide, I’ll walk you through why cystoscopy is used, how it’s done, what i

Introduction One of the most frustrating parts of living with Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also called Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS) or Painful Bladder Syndrome, is not knowing exactly why  it happens. Unlike conditions with a clear cause and cure, IC is still a mystery in many ways. Doctors and researchers agree on one thing: IC is real , and while we don’t have all the answers yet, there are several theories that may explain why the bladder becomes so sensitive and painful. In

Introduction If you live with Interstitial Cystitis (IC), you know the dread of a flare. One day your symptoms feel manageable, and the next—suddenly—you’re dealing with bladder pain, urgency, and exhaustion all over again. The good news is: while flares can’t always be prevented, there are many at-home strategies  that can make them shorter, less intense, and easier to cope with. In this guide, we’ll cover simple, practical ways to care for yourself when a flare hits. What i

Introduction Getting to a diagnosis of Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also called Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), can be a long and frustrating journey. Many patients are told for years that their symptoms are “just UTIs” or “in their head” before finding real answers. If you’re in the middle of this process, please know: you are not alone, and there is a pathway forward. In this article, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process doctors use to diagnose IC , what tests you may

Introduction If you’re living with Interstitial Cystitis (IC), you already know how much food can impact your bladder. One meal can feel perfectly fine, while the next triggers burning, urgency, or pressure that lasts for hours—or even days. It’s exhausting, frustrating, and sometimes confusing. That’s why having a reliable food list  is one of the most valuable tools for managing IC. While every person’s triggers are unique, research and patient experience point to some comm

Interstitial Cystitis (IC), also known as Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide—yet it’s often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and overlooked.