Rethinking Chronic UTIs and Interstitial Cystitis — A Conversation on The Shivan Show
Ruth Kriz APRN recently joined Shivan Sarna on The Shivan Show for an in-depth conversation about chronic UTIs, biofilms, and why persistent urinary symptoms may require us to look beyond standard testing and treatment approaches. We discussed why UTI symptoms can sometimes persist or return after antibiotics, even when standard cultures come back negative. One important part of the conversation was biofilms—protective structures that bacteria can form and that may affect how infections behave, what testing detects, and how treatment is approached. We also talked about reframing interstitial cystitis (IC). For patients who continue to experience symptoms despite being told there is no infection, it may be important to investigate potential underlying contributors rather than assuming every case has the same cause.
Drawing on 35 years of experience within the interstitial cystitis community, I shared what I have learned from difficult and unresolved cases, including the limitations of standard testing, why treatment may need to be approached in layers, and why evaluating a partner can sometimes be part of the broader clinical picture.
If you have struggled with recurring UTI symptoms, negative cultures, or an IC diagnosis that has left you searching for answers, this conversation offers a different perspective and questions worth exploring with your healthcare provider.
Watch the episodes here:
Apple Podcast Link
Spotify Link
YouTube Link
