I am curious what she would tell her patients (she is a therapist herself), as to the ways to heal (physically, emotionally, spiritually) from past sexual abuse.
I just looked up "interstitial cystitis", and it is also called "painful bladder syndrome", which is a "chronic condition characterized by a combination of uncomfortable bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pain in your pelvis, which can range from mild burning or discomfort to severe pain."
Regarding the IC aspect, she said the typical treatments have not been working. I'm curious what she has tried, and if she has followed any kind of diet regimen that is suggested (for instance, staying away from "the four C's: carbonated beverages, caffeine in all forms (including chocolate), citrus products and food containing high concentrations of vitamin C). There does not seem to be much information on IC in regards to alternative and complementary medicine. On the NCCAM site, probiotics are used to help treat IBS (which I realize is very different from IC), but may be worth asking your doctor about?
There does seem to be a link between IC and vulvar pain, which is common in sexual abuse survivors. It does make sense, and is frustrating that many doctors still think "it is all in your head". I am SO HAPPY to hear that she found a sensitive, caring and progressive doctor.
The Interstitial Cystitis Association has a list of support groups by state, which could help her receive the emotional support she is looking for (although she dislikes the group discussion aspect; this may really help).
Another way for survivors of sexual assault to begin the healing process (she's already begun: has a happy marriage, loving family, successful career, she is seeking information, etc) beyond a support group is to help others. The National Organization for Women (NOW) and other Sexual Assault or Domestic Violence centers in her area are in need of support, either through financial means, volunteering time or items, or helping to advocate for other women. This could be an empowering next step.
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This is an amazing story!
I am curious what she would tell her patients (she is a therapist herself), as to the ways to heal (physically, emotionally, spiritually) from past sexual abuse.
I just looked up "interstitial cystitis", and it is also called "painful bladder syndrome", which is a "chronic condition characterized by a combination of uncomfortable bladder pressure, bladder pain and sometimes pain in your pelvis, which can range from mild burning or discomfort to severe pain."
Regarding the IC aspect, she said the typical treatments have not been working. I'm curious what she has tried, and if she has followed any kind of diet regimen that is suggested (for instance, staying away from "the four C's: carbonated beverages, caffeine in all forms (including chocolate), citrus products and food containing high concentrations of vitamin C). There does not seem to be much information on IC in regards to alternative and complementary medicine. On the NCCAM site, probiotics are used to help treat IBS (which I realize is very different from IC), but may be worth asking your doctor about?
There does seem to be a link between IC and vulvar pain, which is common in sexual abuse survivors. It does make sense, and is frustrating that many doctors still think "it is all in your head". I am SO HAPPY to hear that she found a sensitive, caring and progressive doctor.
The Interstitial Cystitis Association has a list of support groups by state, which could help her receive the emotional support she is looking for (although she dislikes the group discussion aspect; this may really help).
Another way for survivors of sexual assault to begin the healing process (she's already begun: has a happy marriage, loving family, successful career, she is seeking information, etc) beyond a support group is to help others. The National Organization for Women (NOW) and other Sexual Assault or Domestic Violence centers in her area are in need of support, either through financial means, volunteering time or items, or helping to advocate for other women. This could be an empowering next step.
I am sure she knows all of the resources for Sexual Abuse Survivors, but here are some online resources:
March 29, 2009 - 7:18am- The National Sexual Assault Online
- The Women's Health Violence Against Women
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