“My first attack of cystitis happened following a bladder infection while I enjoyed a vacation in Hawaii. After returning home, the symptoms persisted until I ended up at the urologist’s office, where he dilated my urethra. The problem seemed to clear up—until the next time! All of my subsequent attacks had one thing in common: no infection was ever again cultured. I believe that my intense pain, spasm, cramping, and frequent and painful urination fit the description of interstitial cystitis (IC). Unfortunately, the only way to confirm the diagnosis is by bladder biopsy, something I was not eager or willing to do.

“I found a second urologist who gave me a new approach to handling my problem, mainly through some dietary changes, and it did help. But I continued to have recurrent episodes and each time they lasted longer and longer.

“My family practice doctor suggested homeopathy as a more permanent approach. Soon after Dr. Reichenberg-Ullman gave me a constitutional homeopathic medicine, the pain diminished rapidly. I could finally sleep without depending on pain medications and no longer feared gong to the bathroom because it didn’t hurt any- more. Thanks to homeopathy, I became pain-free. Homeopathic medicine literally changed the quality of my life. I truly believe that other women in my position can be helped, too.”

Chronic bladder infections often respond beautifully to homeopathic treatment. Shanti’s case of interstitial cystitis is a chronic, noninfectious bladder problem for which conventional medicine has no sure cure. Shanti only needed homeopathic treatment for a year and a half. During her severe episodes of interstitial cystitis, the cramping in her bladder was nearly unbearable, regardless of her position. Also of concern were burning in the urethra, a constant awareness of her bladder, severe uterine cramping during her periods, mood swings, and breasts so painful that lying face down was an ordeal. After taking Cascarilla (gallow grass), the urgency and cramping were gone and her periods were much improved as were her other symptoms.