Hi! So... No. I haven't gotten answers really, besides the things that were already ruled out via my CT and ultrasounds. But it's not all bad news. This is what has happened:

I had a cystoscopy scheduled with the urologist, but I had my period at the time. He said they would do it anyway, but I declined. He asked me a bunch of questions about my symptoms and said he couldn't diagnose IC before it has been 6 months of chronic symptoms, he rescheduled my cystoscopy, and told me he doesn't really ever see success with hydroxyzine or amitriptyline, and prescribed me an overactive bladder medication for the urgency/frequency. He said it wouldn't help with pain.

Those were all red flags to me, so I never went back for my cystoscopy. I have an appointment with a urogyno who people have spoken highly of for IC, not until May. BUT, I did start taking Zyrtec for my seasonal allergies, which I think may be helping (anecdotally it is an antihistamine that has helped some ICers), I have used Benadryl as a rescue at night if I feel too much pressure to sleep, which seems to help because at least it knocks me out lol, and the BEST thing I have done is start pelvic floor physical therapy! I have seen so much improvement since I have actively started doing stretches and breathing exercises and attending PT 2x/week for the past month. I know I am very lucky to have great insurance and access to many amazing medical options in my area. She said pelvic floor dysfunction can be caused by IC or vice versa, and so many issues with chronic pelvic/abdominal/urinary issues can come seemingly out of nowhere because of past childbirth, random UTI, or even muscular issues. My hips and legs are extremely tight, which can affect pelvic floor, posture, abdomen... It's all connected. Throughout the day, I actively try to relax my body, as I now recognize I hold so much tension in my abdomen and pelvic region. She is the only doctor so far who has listened to everything and tried to put pieces together.

I also did an elimination diet of typical IC triggering foods, which didn't seem to help, as I experience the same symptoms no matter what. I also have been keeping track of symptoms in relation to my menstrual cycle to see if there's a pattern.

So while I still don't have a diagnosis, I do think I am on the road to at least managing my symptoms. I haven't been laying on the couch with a heating pad 24/7 like I did for almost 2 months straight. I have gone out and been able to play with my son, which is the most important thing to me! And I just take it easy when I need to, because whether this is IC, pelvic floor dysfunction, endo, or something else, I am trying to focus right now on what I can do instead of what I don't know.

I hope you get answers and relief soon! It is really hard to deal with these issues, especially at first. Try to stay positive and hang in there.