IC Optimist – Winter 2023 – Print Version

In this issue: 

#1 - Editorial: Chasing The Tail of IC/BPS Treatments

#2 - Nine IC/BPS Phenotypes and Their Recipes for Treatment

Dr. Curtis Nickel (Queens University, Canada) has proposed nine possible pheno- types/subtypes for IC/BPS patients and has shared his “recipes” for their treatment. Our lead story features his remarkable proposal and the discussion of two new groups: infection and allergy driven symptoms. 

#3 - Meet The Pelvic Pain Neuroscientist 

Dr. Jason Kutch, a brilliant mathematician and engineer, suddenly developed severe headaches and pelvic pain while doing his post graduate studies. He is now in the unique position of turning his painful history into groundbreaking new research into the neuroscience of chronic pelvic pain. He is exploring the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation to reduce pain, calm the brain and relax pelvic floor muscles. 

#4 - How to Heal From Trauma

We are delighted to offer a story from the Cleveland Clinic which explains how trauma can change our nervous system (making it more sensitive) and, more importantly, how it can be treated successfully without any shame nor blame. 

#5 Self Help Tip - Why Mindfulness Will Help

For those of us with widespread pain (IC, IBS, migraines, fibromyalgia, TMJ, vulvodynia, etc.) our goal is to calm the central nervous system and release the anxiety and “fight or flight” that is often present. We share our favorite Mind-Body medicine techniques that have helped tremendously. 

#6 - Pelvic Organ Prolapse Can Worsen IC Symptoms

Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition affecting women that could be contributing to bladder and pelvic pain conditions. Stacey Shannon reviews the types of prolapse that can occur, their risk factors and possible treatments. 

#7 - Are Oral Birth Control Pills a Cause For or A Solution For Pelvic Pain?

Did you know that birth control pills could reduce estrogen levels and induce estrogen atrophy? Stephanie Prendergast MPT (Pelvic Health & Rehabilitation Center - Los Angeles), one of the leading physical therapists in the world specializing in pelvic pain, reviews the role that oral birth control can play in pelvic and bladder pain. 

#8 - Body Image Can Be Challenging for IC Patients

As if dealing with urinary and painful symptoms weren’t enough to deal with, the hard truth is that some common treatments, diet changes and lack of exercise can trigger significant weight gain. Stacey explores the delicate issue of body image. 

#9 - Don’t Let IC/BPS Stand In The Way (Parties, Family Celebrations & Special Events)

Stacey Shannon offers tips on how we can and should participate in family gatherings again. Let’s break the isolation that can occur with IC/BPS. We need that support and interaction.  

#10 - The IC Diet Project: White Bean Chili

It’s been a wicked, cold winter here with unprecedented levels of rain and snow. What warms the belly on these challenging days? Why chili of course. White chili is IC friendly, hearty and packs a healthy portion of fiber too! You might fall in love with this new recipe! 

Pages: 32

Publisher: Interstitial Cystitis Network