There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
From the Research
Interstitial Cystitis and Menstrual Cycle
- Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a sterile bladder condition that primarily affects females, characterized by frequency, nocturia, and suprapubic pain 1.
- IC symptoms can be exacerbated during ovulation, suggesting a potential link between the condition and neurohormonal processes 1.
- The worsening of IC symptoms during ovulation may be related to the expression of estrogen receptors on human bladder mast cells, which can be activated by estradiol 1.
Menstrual Cycle and IC Symptoms
- A study of 100 female IC patients found that 75% reported symptom flares the week before their menses, suggesting a possible correlation between IC symptoms and the menstrual cycle 2.
- Another study found that women with IC and menstrual cycle-related changes in their symptoms may benefit from hormonal manipulation, such as treatment with leuprolide acetate or oral contraceptive pills 3.
- The exact relationship between the menstrual cycle and IC symptoms is not fully understood, but it is clear that some women experience worsening symptoms during certain phases of their cycle 2, 3.
Treatment and Management
- Current guidelines for the management of IC recommend a tailored approach, taking into account the individual patient's symptoms and severity of the condition 4.
- Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, pharmacological interventions, and surgical therapies, depending on the patient's specific needs 4.
- Nurse practitioners play a crucial role in recognizing, evaluating, and managing IC, and should be aware of the clinical manifestations and treatment options for this condition 5.