Logo image
Back
Role of Gynecologic Findings in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Consensus
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Role of Gynecologic Findings in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome: A Consensus

Marie E. Sullivan, Amr El Haraki, Anna Padoa, Katy Vincent, Kristene E. Whitmore and Mauro Cervigni
Neurourology and urodynamics, v 45(1), pp 39-45
Jan 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/nau.70099
PMID: 40575937
url
https://doi.org/10.1002/nau.70099View
Published, Version of Record (VoR)CC BY-NC-ND V4.0,  Open

Abstract

bladder pain syndrome gynecologic comorbidities interstitial cystitis multidisciplinary care pelvic floor dysfunction vulvodynia Endometriosis
Objective To evaluate the role of gynecologic findings in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) by reviewing current international guidelines and identifying relevant gynecologic co‐morbidities. Methods This consensus statement was developed through a systematic four‐phase process: (1) comprehensive literature review across PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases (inception‐January 2025) using predefined search terms related to IC/BPS and gynecologic conditions; (2) assembly of a 6‐member multidisciplinary expert panel including urologists, urogynecologists, gynecologists and pain specialists; (3) consensus development via modified Delphi technique comprising several electronic rating rounds and a face‐to‐face meeting, with consensus defined as ≥ 80% agreement; and (4) manuscript preparation with iterative review. Results A number of associated gynecologic disorders may overlap with IC/BPS, our consensus committee identified five main co‐morbid disorders: Endometriosis/Adenomyosis, Genito‐Pelvic Pain Penetration Disorder/Sexual Dysfunction, Overactive Pelvic Floor Muscles, Hormone‐ Associated Genitourinary Changes, Vulvodynia/Vestibulodynia. Conclusion While not exhaustive, this consensus highlights the most prevalent gynecologic co‐morbidities supported by current literature. Clinical evaluation should prioritize a detailed medical history and pelvic examination to identify these overlapping conditions. Future directions include developing a multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment algorithm to guide clinicians—including urologists, gynecologists, urogynecologists, physical therapists—in comprehensive IC/BPS care.

Metrics

1 Record Views

Details

Logo image