IC Optimist – Summer Fall 2025

We are delighted to issue our Summer/Fall 2025 IC Optimist. The flagship publication of the IC Network, our patient magazine provides feature stories, comforting self-help tips, the latest research, conference updates and new articles on the IC diet.

In this issue:

Editorial - Why NIH Funding Cuts Are Damaging

Did you know that the National Institutes of Health research has reduced cancer deaths in the USA by 30%? Did you know that they have invested millions of dollars into IC/BPS research with great success.  It's heartbreaking to have come so far and now be at a stand still. Today, there are now few opportunities for IC research.  In our editorial, we review the many studies which have helped IC/BPS. Please join us in uniting to support this vital institution. We must unite to support further IC studies.

AUA 2025 - New Courses & Research

Each year, the American Urological Association holds the largest urology meeting in the world, where tens of thousands of doctors travel from around the world to present their research, take courses and build alliances. This conference also showcases the latest in IC research and offers courses to those who want to improve patient care. We share highlights from the course on IC/BPS taught by Drs Henry Lai, Quentin Clemens and Anne Ackerman as well as new studies!

Feature Story - The Tarnished History of Elmiron®

A new investigative report was released last Spring which raised disturbing details about the FDA approval of Elmiron®. In this article, we provide a detailed timeline of the FDA approval process, requests for research proving that it was effective and, most importantly, the discovery of both retinal and inflammatory bowel disease.

Feature Story - Elmiron®, Colonoscopies and Carpet Polyps

Have you had an abnormal colonoscopy after using Elmiron® or pentosan? A growing number of patients are reporting an alarming increase in polyps found during colonoscopies, in some cases so many that they are labelled as carpet polyps.  Unfortunately, if dysplasia is found, patients have had colectomies to reduce their risk of cancer.

In Memorium - The Timeless Legacy of Dr. Jerome Weiss

We celebrate the timeless legacy of  Dr. Jerome Weiss, who helped thousands of patients with IC and pelvic pain at the Pacific Center for Pelvic Pain. Decades ago, he was first urologist to recognize the role of the pelvic floor and nerves in triggering IC symptoms. His theories and approach to treatment are now the cornerstone of treatment across the world. We also include an interview he did with the ICN 25 years ago which readers perfectly in 2025. He was right all along. The pelvic floor muscles and nerves play a much larger role in IC than the bladder itself!

Feature Story - When Rectal Pain Stops You In Your Tracks

Have you ever had rectal pain so severe that you literally couldn’t move? Known as proctalgia fugax, it is surprisingly common and often driven by extreme muscle tension squeezing the pudendal nerve. You are certainly not alone. PF has affected many, if not most, people at some point in time in their lives. We share what it is, why it occurs and how you can prevent it.

Introducing The Femetry Line of Products

If you’ve been taking a supplement for months or years yet are still having bladder wall flares and sleepless nights, maybe it’s time to try something new. I would like to introduce you to Femetry™, a new line of products that may help. Developed by three urogynecologists, this product line attacks our urinary symptoms in a new way.

Feature Story - IC/BPS Myths & Facts: Busting the Misconceptions That Keep Patients Hurting

Stacey Shannon busts the misconceptions that have kept so many patients confused and in distress. No, my friends, IC is not just a bladder infection nor is it all in your head.

The Latest Research - Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy Gains Traction in IC Clinic

Pulsed electromagnetic therapy is gaining substantial traction in IC clinics for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation. Dr. Ken Peters said “Almost everyone feels better after a treatment and the pelvic floor Is much relaxed.” Not bad for a therapy that requires nothing more than laying on a mat.

IC Diet Project - The Flavors of India, Nepal & Tibet

From the IC Diet Project, we share some bladder friendly recipes that feature the flavors of India, Nepal and Tibet. There’s no reason to be afraid of spices. It’s usually just the hot ones that can challenging. If you can tolerate yogurt, tandoori chicken is absolutely worth trying.

Pages: 44

Publisher: Interstitial Cystitis Network. 

(The price has paper has increased dramatically with the tariffs, doubling our printing costs. We are sorry that we have to raise the price $2 but we have no choice.)