I have IC as well. I was diagnosed with IC about five years after my UC diagnosis. Since then, I've been diagnosed with crohns. I hear you--seems like just another autoimmune disorder to add to the list. You're definitely not alone. <3 

Hi Juliet, thanks for your reply. 

My IC has been driving me crazy the past couple of months. I just left a urine sample at the lab today. I’ve finished two rounds of antibiotics and still feel pain and urgency. I think I need an some installations.

IC pain is so frustrating. I've been battling a stubborn UTI infection for the past two years. It seems like two weeks after finishing a round of antibiotics, I end up with another infection. Do you struggle with repeated infections as well?

Instillations can be helpful. I asked my urologist for a kit so I could do my own at home. An instillation does take the edge off of a bad flare-up for a short period of time. I also have been having botox injections for the past three years. The only negative--is I have to self-catheter because botox literally makes me unable to urinate on my own.  

I've looked into an Interstim for my IC, but my urologist is hesitant to implant in me because once you have the implant, you can't have an MRI.  I've been using a heating pad for years now too. It does help with pain.  

I can’t imagine self installing! I’ve never even self catheterized! You’re amazing!       I tried Botox last summer, it made me worse. Never again. I won’t do interstim because of the MRI issue. I find a heating pad helps too. I’m hoping this bout of UTI’s is short-lived. I haven’t had these, ongoing for awhile now.

Yeah, the self-cathing is not fun. I do hope the UTI clears for you. I'm really struggling to get rid of mine once and for all. Keep me posted!