The American Urological Association (AUA) provides clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), last updated in 2022 (a PDF copy is available here). These guidelines not only provide a suggested diagnostic process but also categorize treatment options and note the evidence for each.

The current scientific consensus also acknowledges that while some treatment approaches may be helpful for anyone with IC/BPS, there are some that may be more effective in those with a bladder-centric phenotype. Importantly, many IC/BPS patients find relief through a multimodal approach (i.e., using multiple treatment strategies). Patients may also benefit by working with an interdisciplinary team of providers that includes urologists, urogynecologists, gynecologists, pain management specialists, primary care providers, pelvic floor physical therapists, pharmacists, and mental health providers.