The Right Diagnosis Can Lead You to the Right Treatment

Misdiagnosis is common

Doctors are gaining awareness of interstitial cystitis (IC), but this condition may still go undiagnosed. It’s not uncommon for someone with IC to see several doctors, over the course of years, before they are actually diagnosed with the condition.

That's why it's important to see either a urologist or an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB/GYN), as they are specialists who tend to be most familiar with the diagnosis and treatment of IC.

Because the symptoms of IC can be similar to other conditions, it's possible for it to be mistaken for something else. Also, because it's possible to have IC in addition to another medical condition, it’s important to communicate all of your symptoms to your doctor.

IC is a chronic condition of the bladder that's characterized by urinary urgency, frequency, and pelvic pain. IC has many symptoms that are in common with other conditions, such as: Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP), Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), Endometriosis, Overactive Bladder (OAB), and Vulvodynia.

IC Symptoms Comparison Chart

Select a condition from the menu below to compare symptoms and to learn more about conditions that are similar to IC. Remember, your doctor is the best person to diagnose your condition.