Bladder retraining, also known as pelvic floor rehabilitation, is a treatment option for Interstitial Cystitis (IC) that can help with urinary urgency and frequency. It involves gradually increasing the amount of time between urination to help stretch the bladder and increase its capacity. If you have no pain but are bothered by urine frequency or urgency, you may be able to train your bladder to hold more.
You can train your bladder by going to the bathroom at scheduled times and using relaxation techniques. After a while, try to make the time you can wait longer. Gradually increase the time interval: After a week or two, try waiting an extra 5–10 minutes before urinating.
It is very important to slowly increase the time interval. You don’t want to cause a flare up while doing bladder retraining.
Sometimes it helps to keep a bladder diary to track how often you urinate so you can track your progress. Keep a bladder diary to track how often you urinate.
How long does bladder training take to work?
It should take between six to 12 weeks to accomplish your ultimate goal. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. You may find you have good days and bad days. As you continue bladder retraining, you will start to notice more and more good days, so keep practicing.
Sources
TREATING INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS 