Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bladder-related issues affecting women. In fact, studies show up to 60% of women will have at least one UTI during their lifetime.
Most UTIs improve with antibiotics, but if urinary symptoms recur regularly or persist despite treatment, especially alongside symptoms such as pelvic pain, a condition called interstitial cystitis may be to blame.
At Advanced Southern Westchester Medical in Yonkers, New York, urologist Sherif S. El-Masry, MD, specializes in treating chronic UTIs and interstitial cystitis, both of which can cause female pelvic pain. This article explains both conditions, highlights common symptoms, and discusses when to see Dr. El-Masry for treatment.
Before we look at symptoms and treatment, it’s important to understand how chronic UTIs and interstitial cystitis differ.
A urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria enter your urethra, the tube that allows urine to exit your body. These infections are considered chronic if you experience two or more UTIs within six months or three UTIs in a year.
Common symptoms include pain in your pelvic area, pain or burning during urination, incontinence, and hematuria (blood in your urine). Women are much more likely to develop UTIs than men; a main cause is female urinary tract anatomy.
Interstitial cystitis is a chronic condition that causes persistent bladder pressure and pain. Researchers don’t know why it happens, but it’s thought that abnormalities within the lining of the bladder, called the epithelium, may contribute. This condition is also more common in women than men.
The main difference between chronic UTIs and interstitial cystitis is that bacteria cause one and not the other.
Because UTIs and interstitial cystitis often present similar symptoms, telling the difference typically requires testing and a comprehensive urology exam.
Make an appointment with Dr. El-Masry if you:
After reviewing your health history, discussing your symptoms, and completing lab testing, Dr. El-Masry can determine the source of your discomfort and make personalized treatment recommendations.
If Dr. El-Masry determines you have a chronic UTI, he may prescribe long-term low-dose antibiotics to help prevent reinfection. You may also benefit from taking cranberry extract supplements or a medication called methenamine hippurate, which helps prevent bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
Interstitial cystitis is more challenging to treat, but it typically involves a combination of pelvic floor therapy and medication. You may also benefit from nerve stimulation, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) or sacral stimulation.
Persistent female pelvic pain or urinary issues can significantly affect your quality of life and keep you from activities you enjoy. The good news is that the right treatment can ease symptoms and help you feel better.
To receive personalized guidance from our compassionate team, schedule an appointment by calling Advanced Southern Westchester Medical at 914-375-5700 today.
