Bladder Pain Syndrome (Interstitial Cystitis) – Overview
Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS), also known as Interstitial Cystitis (IC), is a chronic condition that causes persistent pain, pressure, or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region, often accompanied by urinary urgency and frequency. Unlike a regular bladder infection, BPS/IC is not caused by bacteria and does not improve with antibiotics.
BPS is considered a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning other causes like urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or cancers must first be ruled out. The symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pelvic pain that affects quality of life, emotional wellbeing, and daily activities.
The condition can affect anyone, but it is more common in women, particularly between the ages of 30 and 50. In South Africa, awareness and diagnosis remain limited, especially in public healthcare settings, where it is often misdiagnosed as recurrent UTIs.
Common symptoms of Bladder Pain Syndrome/IC:
- Chronic pelvic or bladder pain (dull ache, sharp pain, or pressure)
- Urgent need to urinate, even when the bladder is not full
- Frequent urination (often more than 10 times per day)
- Pain that worsens during menstruation, sex, or stress
- Temporary relief after urinating
- No detectable infection on standard urine tests
The symptoms often flare and subside unpredictably, making it frustrating for patients to manage and for doctors to treat. Some people go years without an accurate diagnosis.
Subtypes:
- Non-ulcerative BPS – most common; bladder appears normal or slightly inflamed.
- Ulcerative (Hunner’s lesions) – visible sores on the bladder lining found during cystoscopy.
While there is no cure, many people find symptom relief through tailored treatments and lifestyle adjustments.
BPS/IC is a real medical condition — not psychological, imaginary, or attention-seeking — and it deserves appropriate medical recognition and support.
👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Pain Syndrome]
