What Is IC?

Learn more about the anatomy of IC

Frequently, IC causes pain in the bladder and the pelvic region. The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the pelvis. Its purpose is to collect and temporarily hold urine.  On the inside wall of the bladder is a continuous protective lining. It contains many tiny folds that enable the bladder to stretch. This protective mucous lining shields the bladder wall from the irritating substances in urine.  It is thought that in people with IC the bladder lining may be irritated, scarred, or inflamed. 

This contributes to many of the common symptoms:
·	Bladder pain
·	Urinary frequency 
·	Urinary urgency

This lining extends down the urinary system. Many people with IC feel pain in the following locations: 

Males & Females: 
·	Lower back 
·	Lower abdomen
·	Urethra

Females Only: 
·	Vulva 
·	Vagina

Males Only:
·	Scrotum
·	Testes
·	Rectum