Epidemiological Insights into Bladder Pain Syndrome among Bangladeshi Women: Prevalence, Clinical Presentations, Management Preferences, and Associated Risk Factors

Abstract

Background: Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS) is a complex condition with varying clinical presentations and management strategies. Despite its global prevalence, there is limited research addressing the syndrome in Bangladeshi women. This study aimed to bridge this knowledge gap, providing insights into the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and management strategies of BPS within this demographic. Methods: A sample of 1984 Bangladeshi women was analyzed using a cross-sectional study design. Through stratified random sampling, participants were assessed for BPS symptoms, management preferences, and associated risk factors. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and chi-square tests for determining associations. Results: The prevalence of BPS was found to be 16.2% among the sampled population. The primary clinical features identified were pelvic pain (91.3%), frequent urination (83.2%), and nocturia (75.2%). Oral medications emerged as the predominant management strategy (63.9%). Significant associations were found between BPS and previous urinary tract infections, with a 2.5-fold increased risk. Moreover, fibromyalgia was identified as a notable comorbidity in 16.8% of BPS patients. Conclusion: BPS presents a significant health concern for Bangladeshi women, with specific clinical manifestations and management preferences. The associations between BPS, prior UTIs, and fibromyalgia necessitate a multi-pronged clinical approach for effective diagnosis and management. This study underscores the urgency of enhanced awareness and tailored interventions for BPS within the Bangladeshi context.