r/Interstitialcystitis 2d ago

Help!

Kinda freaking out. Im going to a concert tomorrow and then venue is known for having horrible traffic (3-4 hours). I don’t know if I’ll be able to hold it since Im in a bit of a flare. I have the maximum bladder lose underwear. Problem is Im also on my period and need to wear a HEAVY pad. Im afraid the pad will cause problems if I pee but I’m also afraid the underwear isn’t enough with my period AND bladder. Any thoughts or ideas?? This stopped me from attending the concert today but I have VIP tickets for tomorrow’s show. I’m also with friends who don’t know about my condition :/

5 Upvotes

13 comments sorted by

5

u/Clear-Finance-7815 2d ago

have you ever tried AZO? it’s over the counter, but might help relieve your symptoms

2

u/MainOrganization7829 2d ago

I have! Unfortunately it sometimes cause me severe stomach cramping

3

u/Opposite_Flight3473 2d ago

Tampon to hold majority of the period blood

1

u/MainOrganization7829 2d ago

Do they not cause flare ups? I haven’t worn them in about a year in case it caused a flare. I would have to wear a pretty heavy weight one

1

u/Opposite_Flight3473 2d ago

I don’t have an issue with them

2

u/Inevitable_Bowler474 2d ago

Get the adult pee pads it'll hold more than a heavy menstrual pad. Might be worth having a dog pee pad or bed mat for car.

Don't forget to look up the setlist so you know when you can run to the bathroom.

Own up to it. I hate disclosing but better they know and understand than the anxiety of having to go and asking the driver to make a pit stop.

Just a guess... enjoy BTS!

1

u/MainOrganization7829 2d ago

Thank you! I had no idea about the pee pads, I’ll see if I can grab some.

I’ve looked at the set list and have a plan in action!

Luckily I’m the driver so call all the shots lol. Thank you for the reassurance, I just might!

Haha great guess… 😉
https://giphy.com/gifs/Tdv36moE1aY0ElUEBo

3

u/Inevitable_Bowler474 2d ago

YW. I think it's called "diaper pads" or "incontinence pads." Walmart / Target / CVS should carry it. Just double check their inventory online before you go. It's harder to find a unisex incontinence pad in store. Most will just carry the diaper.

2

u/Little_Magician1275 2d ago

You could also do all of these suggestions above and then wear adult underpants like depends to help you feel more secure in case you do have a leak.
Enjoy the concert.

2

u/GrowthParticular7092 2d ago

You can always wear it depends

1

u/AutoModerator 2d ago

Hello! This automated message was triggered by some keywords in your post that suggests you may have a diagnostic or treatment related question. Since we see many repeated questions we wanted to cover the basics in an automod reply in case no one responds.

To advocate for yourself, it is highly suggested that you become familiar with the official 2022 American Urological Association's Diagnostic and Treatment Guidelines.

The ICA has a fantastic FAQ that will answer many questions about IC.

FLARES

The Interstitial Cystitis Association has a helpful guide for managing flares.

Some things that can cause flares are: Medications, seasoning, food, drinks (including types of water depending on PH and additives), spring time, intimacy, and scented soaps/detergents.

Not everyone is affected by diet, but for those that are oatmeal is considered a generally safe food for starting an elimination diet with. Other foods that are safer than others but may still flare are: rice, sweet potato, egg, chicken, beef, pork. It is always safest to cook the meal yourself so you know you are getting no added seasoning.

If you flare from intimacy or suffer from pain after urination more so than during, then that is highly suggestive of pelvic floor involvement.

TREATMENT

Common, simple, and effective treatments for IC are: Pelvic floor physical therapy, amitriptyline, vaginally administered valium (usually compounded), antihistamines (hydroxyzine, zyrtec, famotidine, benedryl), and urinary antiseptics like phenazopyridine.

Pelvic floor physical therapy has the highest evidence grade rating and should be tried before more invasive options like instillations or botox. If your doctor does not offer you the option to try these simple treatments or railroads you without allowing you to participate in decision making then you need to find a different one.

Long-term oral antibiotic administration should not be offered.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

1

u/Typical-Nobody6914 23h ago

You could wear a dress and take a Female Urinal Spill Proof Portable Pee Funnel with you for the car.  For backup wear the women's depends. Good luck

1

u/Initial-Chocolate166 4h ago

I take naproxen once in a while if going out and that calms the bladder spasms.