Patient Information

Living with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) can raise many questions — for patients, families, and carers alike.

This section brings together clear, reliable information on the condition: from understanding what IC/BPS is, to diagnosis, treatment options, and related disorders, to support you along the way.

Diagnosing IC/BPS can be a complex process, as bladder pain may have many different causes. Here you will find an explanation of how the condition is diagnosed — from the first appointment with a family doctor to referral to a specialist — along with an overview of the tests and procedures used to identify IC/BPS and distinguish it from other conditions, including cystoscopy, which remains the only way to detect Hunner lesions.

Since there is currently no complete cure for IC/BPS and no single treatment effective for all patients, care is focused on alleviating each individual’s symptoms and improving quality of life.

Here you will find an overview of the different treatment approaches available — from self-care strategies and oral medication to bladder instillations, neuromodulation, and, in the most severe cases, surgery — along with guidance on finding a clinic experienced in IC/BPS.

Many patients with IC/BPS also live with one or more non-bladder conditions, known as associated disorders or comorbidities.

Here you will find an overview of the conditions most commonly linked to IC/BPS — including autoimmune diseases, chronic pain syndromes, pelvic floor dysfunction, gastrointestinal disorders and others — and why recognising them is an important part of developing an effective, individualised treatment plan.