Interstitial Cystitis

Platelet-Rich Plasma in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Hajebrahimi S, Tahmasbi F, Jahantabi E, Hosseinpour G, Taneja R, Salehi-Pourmehr H · Advanced pharmaceutical bulletin · 2025 · n=426

This systematic review aims to critically evaluate the safety and efficacy of PRP therapy in managing interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). Two researchers independently searched related Databases and collected all studies from inception to December 5, 2023. Outcome indicators of symptom relief were pain scores self-assessment using the VAS system, IC symptoms using the O'Leary-Sant score (OSS), urinary frequency, nocturia, post-void residual (PVR), voided volume, and functional bladder capacity. Among 372 retrieved articles, 13 studies, including 426 patients, were included. The pain of patients decreased significantly after treatment with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) compared to the baseline values (MD: -1.93, 95% CI: -2.28, -1.58). All subgroup analyses revealed a decrease in VAS scores after PRP injection. IC symptoms using OSS, and ICSI decreased significantly after treatment. PRP therapy as a new and successful course of treatment may be a novel therapeutic appro

Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium and Maculopathy in Patients with Interstitial Cystitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Lee J, Kim YJ, Lee K, Kim YK, Rhee TG, Shim SR · The world journal of men's health · 2025 · n=98

Pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) is the only pharmacological intervention approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treating interstitial cystitis (IC) to date. However, PPS may induce an adverse event, maculopathy, which can be a significant challenge. To determine the risk of PPS-induced maculopathy in patients with IC. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched through July 2024. Two authors also independently and manually searched all relevant studies. We included national level cohort studies using healthcare claim big data or real-world data with the following criteria: (1) patients diagnosed with IC; (2) interventions included PPS as an active treatment; (3) comparisons were specified as non-PPS interventions; and (4) the primary outcome of interest was the risk of maculopathy. The pairwise meta-analysis was performed to compare the PPS treatment group with control used in IC. The primary outcome measure was the hazard ratio (HR), odds ratio (OR), and proportiona

Neuromodulation for the management of chronic pelvic pain syndromes: A systematic review.

Gish B, Langford B, Sobey C, Singh C, Abdullah N, Walker J · Pain practice : the official journal of World Institute of Pain · 2024

Chronic pelvic pain is a burdensome condition that involves multiple medical sub-specialties and is often difficult to treat. Sacral stimulation for functional bladder disease has been well established, but little large-scale evidence exists regarding utilization of other neuromodulation techniques to treat chronic pelvic pain. Emerging evidence does suggest that neuromodulation is a promising treatment, and we aim to characterize the use and efficacy of such techniques for treating chronic pelvic pain syndromes. A systematic review of the literature demonstrating the treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndromes with neuromodulation. Abstracts were reviewed and selected for inclusion, including case series, prospective studies, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Case studies and publications in abstract only were not included. The reporting for this systematic review follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). The literature search was perf

Evidence for increased tone or overactivity of pelvic floor muscles in pelvic health conditions: a systematic review.

Worman RS, Stafford RE, Cowley D, Prudencio CB, Hodges PW · American journal of obstetrics and gynecology · 2023 · n=16

Pelvic floor muscle tone, which includes active and passive components, is argued to be increased in many pelvic health conditions, including those involving pain. This study systematically reviewed evidence for increased pelvic floor muscle tone in pelvic health conditions. Electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and Embase) were searched up to May 31, 2021. The search strategy included variants of pelvic and/or floor, muscle, and tone using keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms. Studies were included if they investigated increased tone of the pelvic floor muscle and reported measures of active or mechanical properties of the pelvic floor muscle in humans with any pelvic health condition, including pain, bowel, urogenital, or sexual dysfunctions. Studies of any design were included, except systematic and narrative reviews. Reference lists of studies, reviews, and book chapters were searched for additional studies. Data were extracted using a standardized form, including

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Pelvic Floor Hypertonicity: A Systematic Review of Treatment Efficacy.

van Reijn-Baggen DA, Han-Geurts IJM, Voorham-van der Zalm PJ, Pelger RCM, Hagenaars-van Miert CHAC, Laan ETM · Sexual medicine reviews · 2022

Hypertonicity of the pelvic floor (PFH) is a disabling condition with urological, gynecological and gastrointestinal symptoms, sexual problems and chronic pelvic pain, impacting quality of life. Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) is a first-line intervention, yet no systematic review on the efficacy of PFPT for the treatment of PFH has been conducted. To systematically appraise the current literature on efficacy of PFPT modalities related to PFH. PubMed, Embase, Emcare, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception until February 2020. A manual search from reference lists of included articles was performed. Ongoing trials were reviewed using clinicaltrial.gov. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective - and retrospective cohorts and case-study analyses were included. Outcome measures were pelvic floor muscle tone and function, pain reports, sexual function, pelvic floor symptom scores, quality of life and patients' perceived effect. The literature sear

[Update of the S2k guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS)].

Zimmermann PV, Gonsior A, Vahlensieck W, Schultz-Lampel D, Wiedemann A, Kaftan BT · Urologie (Heidelberg, Germany) · 2026

In July 2025, the S2k guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), developed under the auspices of the German Society of Urology (DGU), was published via the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF) following comprehensive revision. The update aimed to improve diagnostic and therapeutic clarity and clinical applicability. This article summarizes the key updates of the revised guideline and provides practical guidance for the clinical management of patients with IC/BPS. Major revisions include an updated definition and classification of IC/BPS in accordance with the WHO ICD-11 framework and an expanded overview of current pathogenetic concepts. A clearly structured, multimodal treatment algorithm has been implemented, integrating pharmacological, intravesical, interventional, neuromodulatory, and nonpharmacological therapies. Particular focus is placed on psychosocial comorbidities, individualized dieta

Directive clinique n(o) 425a : Le cannabis aux différentes périodes de la vie des femmes - Partie 1 : Fertilité, contraception, ménopause et douleur pelvienne.

Robert M, Graves LE, Allen VM, Dama S, Gabrys RL, Tanguay RL · Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Canada : JOGC = Journal d'obstetrique et gynecologie du Canada : JOGC · 2022

Fournir aux fournisseurs de soins de santé les meilleures données probantes sur l'utilisation de cannabis et la santé des femmes. Les domaines d'intérêt sont : les profils généraux d'utilisation du cannabis ainsi que la sécurité de la consommation; les soins aux femmes qui utilisent le cannabis; la stigmatisation; le dépistage, l'intervention brève et l'orientation vers le traitement; les effets sur la régulation hormonale; la santé reproductive, y compris la contraception et la fertilité; la fonction sexuelle; les effets sur les symptômes périménopausiques et postménopausiques; et l'utilisation dans le traitement des syndromes de douleur pelvienne chronique. La population cible comprend toutes les femmes qui consomment ou utilisent du cannabis ou qui envisagent de le faire. RéSULTATS: Un dialogue ouvert et fondé sur des données probantes relativement à l'utilisation et la con

Guideline No. 425a: Cannabis Use Throughout Women's Lifespans - Part 1: Fertility, Contraception, Menopause, and Pelvic Pain.

Robert M, Graves LE, Allen VM, Dama S, Gabrys RL, Tanguay RL · Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Canada : JOGC = Journal d'obstetrique et gynecologie du Canada : JOGC · 2022

To provide health care providers with the best evidence on cannabis use with respect to women's health. Areas of focus include general patterns of cannabis use as well as safety of use; care for women who use cannabis; stigma; screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment; impact on hormonal regulation; reproductive health, including contraception and fertility; sexual function; effects on perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms; and use in chronic pelvic pain syndromes. The target population includes all women currently using or contemplating using cannabis. Open, evidence-informed dialogue about cannabis use, which will lead to improvement in patient care. Exploring cannabis use through a trauma-informed approach provides the health care provider and patient with an opportunity to build a strong, collaborative, therapeutic alliance. This alliance empowers women to make informed choices about their own care. It also allows for the diagnosis and possible treatment of canna

Global Consensus on Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: An Update on Therapeutic Treatments.

Buford K, Peters KM, Riedl C, Mishra NN, Jacques WJ, Lovász S · Neurourology and urodynamics · 2026

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic condition marked by chronic pain and voiding dysfunction, often without a clear cause. Management of which often requires a multidisciplinary approach, as well as multiple therapeutic interventions. This review characterizes mechanisms and limitations of currently available treatment modalities for IC/BPS, as well as novel and investigational therapies. Conservative and supportive therapies include cognitive therapies, dietary and fluid management, pelvic floor exercises and bladder training. Additionally, pelvic floor directed therapies such as physical therapy, injections and nerve blocks should be considered. Cystoscopy with hydrodistension is both a diagnostic and therapeutic intervention. Currently available oral therapies include: pentosan polysulfate, amitriptyline, hydroxyzine, silodosin, and non-opioid medications such as cyclobenzaprine. Immunotherapies include cyclosporine and tacrolimus. Available intravesi

Chronic Pain Syndromes in Women.

Muchowski K · Primary care · 2025

Chronic pain syndromes like fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pain, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and chronic migraine cause significant disability and impair quality of life for many women. Evaluation of chronic pain can be complex because women often have overlapping syndromes as well as comorbid anxiety and depression. Multidisciplinary care including nonpharmacologic treatments like exercise and mindfulness-based therapies as well as pharmacologic medications improve function and decrease pain. With their wide knowledge base, primary care providers are well-equipped to primarily manage chronic pain in their women patients.

mHealth Intervention for Improving Pain, Quality of Life, and Functional Disability in Patients With Chronic Pain: Systematic Review.

Moreno-Ligero M, Moral-Munoz JA, Salazar A, Failde I · JMIR mHealth and uHealth · 2023 · n=2641

Chronic pain (CP) is 1 of the leading causes of disability worldwide and represents a significant burden on individual, social, and economic aspects. Potential tools, such as mobile health (mHealth) systems, are emerging for the self-management of patients with CP. A systematic review was conducted to analyze the effects of mHealth interventions on CP management, based on pain intensity, quality of life (QoL), and functional disability assessment, compared to conventional treatment or nonintervention. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines were followed to conduct a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) databases from February to March 2022. No filters were used. The eligibility criteria were RCTs of adults (≥18 years old) with CP, intervened with mHealth systems based on mobile apps for monitoring pain and health-related o

Interstitial cystitis

NHS

This NHS page provides an overview of interstitial cystitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatments within the UK healthcare system.

Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)

As part of the NIH, NIDDK offers in-depth information about interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, including research, clinical trials, and patient resources. It is a key resource for understanding this condition.

Interstitial Cystitis: Monitoring of the Psychic State and Counseling Intervention in the COVID-19 Era

n=50 · NCT05752344 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED

The target population of this observational study is made up of all patients belonging to the Interstitial Cystitis pathway of the Gemelli University Hospital Foundation - IRCCS, who have accepted to be subjected to remote monitoring and diagnostic investigation. The aim of the study is the evaluation of some outcome parameters at the time of enrollment (T0), and at the end (T1) of subjects affected by Intersitial Cystitis who have carried out a monitoring of the dimensions of the psychic sphere concerning: depression, trait anxiety, state anxiety , well-being, self-efficacy, resilience.The objective is also to evaluate the presence of evolutionary and maturational trends in the mental set-up of the people who participated in the individual counseling intervention.

Comparison of Bladder Directed and Pelvic Floor Therapy in Women With Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome

n=128 · NCT02870738 · ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING · ACTIVE_NOT_RECRUITING

Women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) have debilitating urinary frequency and urgency, and chronic pelvic or bladder pain perceived to be related to the bladder. Although many clinicians think that IC/BPS symptoms result from a bladder problem, tight pelvic floor muscles can cause similar symptoms and might be responsible for ICBPS symptoms instead of the bladder. Inadequate assessment of the problem leads to delays in treatment and often years of suffering. This clinical trial will test a bladder directed therapy (bladder instillations) compared to a course of pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) to assess the role of the pelvic floor as a major contributor to pelvic pain and voiding dysfunction in adult women with non-ulcerative IC/BPS. Early assessment of the pelvic floor muscles in patients with IC/BPS symptoms may prevent common delays in proper diagnosis and allow for early, more effective treatment.

The Efficacy of Urine Biomarker in Patient With Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome

n=80 · NCT02331472 · COMPLETED · COMPLETED

This study is to evaluate the efficacy of urine biomarker in patients with interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome

Cochrane Library: Interstitial cystitis

Cochrane

The Cochrane Library provides systematic reviews and meta-analyses on various interventions for interstitial cystitis, offering evidence-based insights.

TRIP: Interstitial Cystitis

TRIP Database

TRIP Database is a clinical search engine that allows users to quickly find high-quality research evidence, including guidelines and systematic reviews, on interstitial cystitis.

TRIP Database - Interstitial Cystitis

TRIP Database

TRIP Database is a clinical search engine that allows health professionals to quickly and easily find high-quality research evidence to support their practice regarding interstitial cystitis.