What is interstitial cystitis?
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Interstitial Cystitis (IC) is a disease involving inflammation of the lining of the bladder. The cause is not known and researchers are working towards a better understanding and to find treatments.
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See also the fact sheet Interstitial Cystitis
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How is it treated?
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Treatment is aimed at reducing the symptoms of IC. At the Royal Women’s Hospital, women with IC are often treated with Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO).
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DMSO is known to provide relief for many people with IC. The treatment involves instilling a solution containing DMSO into the bladder via a catheter.
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Most people have two treatments each week for four weeks, then weekly treatments for four weeks (a total of twelve treatments). In total the treatment usually takes eight weeks. This may vary depending on the individuals needs.
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It is best to evenly space the treatments so we offer treatments on a Monday and Thursday afternoon.
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What you need to do
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Collect the medication for your treatment from the hospital pharmacy just prior to your appointment.
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There is a fee of approximately $15.00 (concession) or $43.75 (full price).
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What happens during a treatment?
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- In the clinic, you will be asked to use the toilet to empty your bladder.
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- A catheter is inserted via the urethra.
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- Your urine is tested for infection and then the DMSO solution will be passed into your bladder through the catheter.
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- The solution is usually held in the bladder for up to 20 minutes, then you will be able to use the toilet to empty your bladder.
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- This completes the procedure and you may go home.
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The procedure is mildly uncomfortable. After the procedure you may feel like you urgently want to go to the toilet.
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After the treatment
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- You can take ordinary pain relieving tablets (like paracetamol) if you feel any discomfort. Some people choose to take a dose before the treatment.
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- It is not uncommon to experience a garlic-like taste and odour from your breath and skin after the treatment. This usually subsides within 24 to 72 hours.
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- Some women experience an urgent need to go to the toilet for one to two hours after the treatment. Be mindful of this before going home, especially if you are driving.
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- You may eat and drink as normal.
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If you experience any complications after you leave the hospital please see your local doctor or you may attend the Emergency Department at the Royal Women’s Hospital (03) 9344 2301 or your closest emergency department.
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Don't forget to confirm your appointment time
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It is a good idea to confirm the time of your next appointment at each treatment.
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More information and support
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Royal Women's Hospital
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Urogynaecology Pelvic Floor Service
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Midwife and Continence Advisor
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Locked Bag 300
Grattan St & Flemington Rd, Parkville VIC 3052
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Tel: (03) 8345 2000
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Other contacts
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Australian Interstitial Cystitis Support Group
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PO Box 767, Kingswood 2747
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http://users.bigpond.net.au/ICSG/
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The Interstitial Cystitis Association
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http://www.ichelp.org
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International Painful Bladder Foundation
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http://www.painful-bladder.org
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Disclaimer
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The Royal Women’s Hospital does not accept any liability to any person for the information or advice (or use of such information or advice) which is provided in this fact sheet or incorporated into it by reference. We provide this information on the understanding that all persons accessing it take responsibility for assessing its relevance and accuracy. Women are encouraged to discuss their health needs with a health practitioner. If you have concerns about your health, you should seek advice from your health care provider or if you require urgent care you should go to the nearest Emergency Dept.
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Last updated Jan 2008
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