"Since you have found this book, chances are you will soon find relief...from pelvic pain, as well as from the bladder symptoms that interrupt your daily activities and negatively affect your relationships, your ability to work, recreate and enjoy life.... [This is] a guide that each person can apply today to start feeling better.” - Lisa Shaver, ND, MSOM, LAc Straight Talk on Something Difficult to Talk about - from a Nurse Who Knows You do not have to live with constant pain or embarrassment When Wendy Cohan, a registered nurse, was diagnosed with the painful, chronic and often progressive disease, interstitial cystitis (IC), she experienced firsthand the frustration millions of patients with IC feel when attempting to find effective, lasting relief. Her extensive research and commitment to becoming well again led to her becoming pain- and symptom-free, with her work and sleep no longer interrupted. She is now dedicated to sharing this kind of life-changing relief with others. A comprehensive, easy-to-understand recovery plan, accompanied by powerful success stories and the resources you'll need to succeed Cohan begins by providing a clear understanding of how a diagnosis is made. She then explores the possible causes of symptoms, providing options for positive changes you can implement. She explains frequently prescribed medications and procedures and then picks up where common medical approaches leave off to discuss: . food sensitivities, including the dramatic relief many experience from eliminating the dietary protein gluten, found in specific grains . stress reduction techniques that can alleviate symptoms, including pain, urinary hesitancy and bladder and pelvic floor spasms. . medicinal herbs, teas, and sleep aides that work safely and effectively to promote healing . hormonal imbalances that affect women with bladder issues and pelvic pain Cohan's techniques target not just freedom from pain and inconvenience, but also life-long, whole-body healing and well being.