Last year, I was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis (IC), which is also known as bladder pain syndrome (BPS). Plus, I have pelvic floor dysfunction. I’ve talked some about my personal experience with interstitial cystitis on the 180 Medical blog so far as well as some tips for a diet when living with interstitial cystitis. Today, however, I’d like to share some of the top interstitial cystitis resources that have helped me. I hope they can help you too.
Needing Support for Living with IC
Due to the nature of this condition, many of us living with interstitial cystitis can go through many emotions, including depression, anger, denial, grief, and a sense of overall isolation at times. We may also feel like no one else out there knows what we’re going through. However, I can tell you firsthand that all these feelings are perfectly normal to have, especially when dealing with a personal and painful bladder condition.
Of course, now I also know how helpful it can be to find support. It’s a life-changer when you can talk with others who relate to the feelings and issues you’re experiencing.
Here are some great resources and support options for you to begin exploring. Some of these are simply resources that you can use for your own education while other links I provide are some online interstitial cystitis support groups and forums.
Interstitial Cystitis Resources on Social Media
From online forums and private groups to helpful educational videos about bladder pain syndrome, here are a few of my favorite online resources through social media.
YouTube
Interstitial Cystitis Network’s YouTube (run by Jill Osborne)
Understanding Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
Interstitial Cystitis Association (ichelp.org)
The Interstitial Cystitis Network
My Invisible IC – Private Facebook Group
IC Dietitian, Julie Beyer (founder of ic-diet.com)
Interstitial Cystitis Diet
Interstitial Cystitis Association – Diet Information
Interstitial Cystitis Recipes Facebook Group
Other Online IC Support Groups and Forums
Interstitial Cystitis Association List of Local/State Support Groups
Daily Strength Interstitial Cystitis Support Group
IC Network Support Center
Global Support Groups/Website listing from IPBF
Pain Connection Support Groups
More Helpful Links, Books, and Websites to Explore
Voices of Hope Blog (Stories of hope, encouragement and success from the IC community)
Public Restroom and Travel Tips (ichelp.org)
Fitness and Interstitial Cystitis IC (ichelp.org)
The Echenberg Institute for Pelvic and Sexual Pain
Urologic Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCPPS) Society
International Painful Bladder Foundation
Where to Get Catheters for Interstitial Cystitis
Part of providing helpful resources includes medical supply providers. If you need to start using catheters to help manage your bladder condition, you can turn to 180 Medical, one of the leading providers of intermittent catheters in America today.
180 Medical’s specialists offer a listening ear, a caring heart, and professional top-class service. Plus, they offer a wide selection of intermittent catheters from the top catheter brands and manufacturers.
From comfortable female catheters to travel catheters options that stay discreet, 180 Medical offers it all. Not sure what your health insurance plan will cover? That’s ok because 180 Medical has insurance experts on staff who can verify your coverage and walk you through your options.
Contact one of our highly-trained, friendly specialists today, and we’ll be glad to help you find the right catheter for your needs.
