Lived experiences of women with interstitial cystitis.

BACKGROUND

Interstitial cystitis significantly affects women's overall well-being. Limited research has explored the lived experiences of women with interstitial cystitis from a qualitative perspective.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the lived experiences of women diagnosed with interstitial cystitis and to understand its multidimensional impacts on daily life.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted using purposive sampling to recruit 18 women diagnosed with interstitial cystitis at a medical center in northern Taiwan. One-on-one, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Six major themes emerged including: a long and difficult search for diagnosis and treatment; significant changes in physical function and bodily sensations; impact and disruption across all aspects of life; experiencing emotional distress; loss of self-value; and developing survival strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Interstitial cystitis profoundly affects women's physical, psychological, and social lives. The findings highlight the need for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, multimodal treatment approaches, integrated psychological support, and holistic nursing care to address the complex biopsychosocial needs of women with interstitial cystitis.