Laura

“I sought help around 3 years after the symptoms started, as for a long time, I was convinced it would just go, or it was off the back of having extreme cystitis. I have seen several different specialists, starting with many GPs who do not understand the issue, and just checked me for STIs and infections, of which I had none. I also saw multiple consultants who were more educated on it, but probably not enough, as there still doesn’t seem to be sufficient research and results for the condition…I would say it’s a long journey, and you will be given lots of different advice, as there isn’t a one fix cure. I would say if you have had bladder problems, look at getting an examination to check that your bladder is not making the symptoms worse. I would also say get on board with a good physio who may give you exercise, or use a pelvic power chair, which can strengthen your pelvic floor. I also think that making sure you’re keeping all yeast at bay, is important, so [that means] keeping a really good neutral pH in the vagina, and just washing it with water.”