Prepare for an IC/BPS Appointment
A short, organized summary is easier to use than a large stack of unprioritized notes. Focus on changes, impact, prior testing, and the decisions you need help making.
Bring these basics
- Photo ID, insurance or payment information, and referral documents if needed.
- Current prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, supplements, allergies, and prior adverse reactions.
- Relevant urine tests, imaging, procedures, and specialist notes.
- A short bladder diary and symptom timeline.
- Your top three goals for the visit.
Describe symptoms clearly
- Where is the pain or pressure?
- What happens as the bladder fills or after urination?
- How often do you urinate during the day and night?
- What changed recently?
- How do symptoms affect sleep, work, movement, food, and intimacy?
Questions to ask
- What conditions are being considered?
- Which tests are necessary, and what would each result change?
- What is the first treatment goal?
- How long should I try this plan?
- Which warning signs need urgent care?
- When and how will we follow up?
After the visit
Write down the plan in your own words, schedule testing or follow-up, confirm medication instructions, and note what improvement or side effects to track.