Bladder problems, interstitial cystitis, PBS

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Hi, I have been experiencing a strange pain in my lower abdomen that I feel could be my bladder. This comes and goes but has been bad recently. It can go from being a dull ache to throbbing pain but not overbearing. However, I have been feeling an extremely strong urge to urinate where I need to go every 10-20 minutes and I am not emptying my bladder completely. My stomach is also very swollen. I have visited a urologist as I had some urinary retention a couple months ago resulting in catheritisation in hospital. Following this I had a cystoscopy and found some bleeding around the bladder. My urologist said this could be PBS (interstitial cystsis). I am interested if anyone with this condition has had a similar experience? It might also be worth noting that I have had a bacteria called ureaplasma that was treated a couple months ago as I had frequent UTI’s. I also had my first UTI in around 6 months last week. 

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • Posted

    I also have deep pain during sex sometimes. 
  • Posted

    Hi, Sophie! Sorry about your issues, I know they can be really tough. I had the same symptoms (except pain during sex) for a few months before being diagnosed with IC/ PBS. I thought that I had a uti when it started (would have been the first time in 15 years) but urine test was negative. Try following the IC Diet, which you can find online, use AZO when it's bad and aim for 64 oz of water daily. Drinking too much too quickly can trigger frequency for some (like me) so try sipping throughout the day. If you have bladder pain that isn't helped by AZO (or any other OTC urinary pain reliever containing phenazopyridine hcl, but NOT cranberry) there are prescription strength meds like hyophen. Both will discolor urine, but it's normal. Believe me, it will get better with treatment and smart choices! I wish you luck and healing!

  • Posted

    Hi Sophie, it can take a while to get diagnosed for IC/PBS as they look at everything else before considering it.  Try Prelief tablets with each meal, they make your urine more alkaline which takes the burning away somewhat.  AZO is good but turns your urine bright orange, it is also a dye so you'll need some protection for clothes if you use it.  A good GP who knows what IC/PBS is, is also a real help.

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