01/09/2026
September is Urology Awareness Month!
What is Bladder Pain Syndrome?
Bladder pain syndrome is sometimes known as interstitial cystitis.
It is a chronic condition lasting at least 3-6 months causing bladder and pelvic pain along with urinary symptoms without an infection, although it can sometimes start after repeated infections.
Symptoms:
Pain when the bladder fills, which is often eases when emptying the bladder
Pain may radiate beyond the bladder into the pelvis, thighs and lower back
Symptoms can fluctuate- there can be flares and remissions
It is usually diagniosed after having tests to rule out other conditions
Pelvic pain is capable of change
It is more common in women, but can occur in men too. It often overlaps with other conditions such as endometriosis, IBS, fibromyalgia and migraines
What a pelvic health physiotherapist can offer you if you have been diagnosed with bladder pain syndrome
- Diet/ fluid advice to avoid irritants to the bladder
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy
- Bladder drill
- Pain management strategies
- TTNS or acupuncture
- Guided exercise and exposure to activities
To book a 15 minute free consultation to discuss your needs email:
[email protected]
