Interstitial cystitis (IC) is pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort related to the bladder, typically associated with persistent urge to void or urinary frequency. IC may also be referred to as chronic pelvic pain (CPP), painful bladder syndrome (PBS), or bladder pain syndrome (BPS).
IC can affect women, men, and children of any age, race, or sex. It is most commonly found in women. Three to 8 million women in the United States may have IC. That is about 3 to 6 percent of all US women. Approximately 82,000 men have IC; however, this estimate is likely below the true prevalence because IC in men may often be mistaken for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
Many people with IC experience severe, chronic pain. Some feel like their insides are being cut apart with razor blades. Others compare the pain to red hot pokers stabbing at their pelvic area.
Revised April 25, 2009