Interstitial cystitis, also called painful bladder syndrome, is a chronic condition that results in discomfort, pressure, tenderness, or intense pain in the bladder and pelvic area. People with IC/PBS usually has an urgent need to urinate, a frequent need to urinate. They may sometimes experience pain during vaginal intercourse. IC/PBS is more common in women than in men. Women’s symptoms often get worse during menstruation. What caused IC/PBS The causes of IC/PBS is unclear.