Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Symptoms of interstitial cystitis generally include reduced bladder capacity, painful sexual intercourse, or mild discomfort in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area. However, they can vary from person to person, and other conditions (like a urinary tract infection) share similar symptoms. Therefore, anyone experiencing possible symptoms of interstitial cystitis should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

 

Common Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

Symptoms of interstitial cystitis tend to vary from person to person. However, people living with interstitial cystitis typically have one or more of the following symptoms:
 
  • Reduced bladder capacity. People with severe interstitial cystitis may urinate as many as 60 times during a 24-hour period.
  • Urgent need to urinate (urgency).
  • Frequent need to urinate (frequency) -- both day and night.
  • Painful sexual intercourse.
  • Mild discomfort, pressure, tenderness, or intense pain in the bladder and surrounding pelvic area, which may increase as the bladder fills and decrease as it empties.
  • In men, discomfort or pain in the prostatic area.
     
Women may find that their symptoms of interstitial cystitis are worse during their periods.
 

Final Thoughts on Symptoms of Interstitial Cystitis

These potential symptoms of interstitial cystitis are not sure signs of the condition. Other common health problems, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), can also cause these symptoms. Anyone with possible symptoms of interstitial cystitis should see a doctor so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD