Recently, I found out I have a condition called Interstitial Cystitis, or I.C. It was shocking as I have never had complicated health issues. What was heartbreaking was hearing the sentence, “There is no cure,” come directly from my doctor.

So what exactly is I.C.? It’s defined as a condition that consists of recurring pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort in the bladder and pelvic region, often associated with urinary frequency (needing to go often) and urgency (feeling a strong need to go). It’s also commonly known as the painful bladder syndrome. Yikes.

A few months ago, I noticed a weird pain coming from my lower abdomen. It was a strange feeling, and after hesitating, I went to see a doctor. After a few simple tests, I was put on antibiotics and thought everything would work out after I finished the medication. But it didn’t work out. In fact, the pain got worse.

Ladies, to somewhat describe the pain, it’s very similar to menstrual cramps, but all the time. I felt the sense of having to go to the bathroom very frequently, even after I just went. And the pain got worse with the urgency. I felt like a 60-year-old in a 20-year-old body.

Doctor appointment after doctor appointment, we finally reached a conclusion that I have Interstitial Cystitis. There is an oral medication, however, it’s not a cure and there is no guarantee that it will work or relieve some of the pain. There are some supplements that can help, but once again, there is no guarantee. Trail and error is the only option.

I was told by my doctor that certain drinks can cause more irritation and if I’m trying to heal my bladder, I need to change my diet. That means no more: orange juice, cranberry juice, tea, iced tea, lemonade, soda of any kind, hot chocolate, or coffee.

Yes. No more coffee. I have been coffee free for three weeks now and I am a cranky caffeine deprived 20 year old who realized I was in a love-hate relationship with my coffee addiction. I also realized that this is probably a good thing since coffee isn’t the best for the body. But I am still very sad and slightly miss getting overly priced coffee drinks. Now I just drink water in the morning. And for lunch. And dinner. Basically water forever.

There are decaffeinated teas and herbs that are supposed to help with I.C. It is definitely a painful process, but I do live with the hope and determination to prove the doctors wrong and that I can be cured. I.C. is something that isn’t talked about very often, but still effects many people today. It’s been a difficult past few months but I am very appreciative of my support with friends and family members.