Interstitial cystitis (IC) is more than a “bladder problem.” In this episode, Heather McKean explores IC as the body’s urgent language for suppressed boundaries, unresolved anger, and survival patterns learned in childhood. She maps common emotional imprints—authoritarian homes, sexual shame, peacemaker roles—and how they later surface as boundary fatigue, smoldering rage, hyper-control, and pelvic pain. Through the Mind Change approach, Heather explains “secondary gains,” why symptom flares can function as subconscious protection, and how rewiring the root narrative restores safety from the inside out. Listen in for a real client story, practical reframes, and a hopeful path forward.

What we covered in this episode: 

💡 Interstitial cystitis is not betrayal; it is the body communicating unmet emotional needs.

⚡ The bladder symbolizes boundaries, territory, personal power, and suppressed emotions.

👶 Many roots of IC begin in childhood through authoritarian homes, secrecy, or experiences of sexual shame and coercion.

😡 Buried anger and unprocessed grief often resurface as pelvic pain and inflammation.

🚫 Boundary fatigue develops when someone keeps saying “yes” while meaning “no,” leading to pain and flare-ups.

🔥 Patterns of hypervigilance, perfectionism, and control mirror bladder tension and prevent release.

💔 Sexual disconnection, shame, or trauma can show up later in life as pain during intimacy.

👥 Old power dynamics are often recreated in adulthood through controlling partners or bosses.

🧠 Symptoms are not failings but survival strategies that subconsciously protect through distance, control, or safety.

🪞 The Mind Change® method rewires subconscious contracts so the nervous system and body can finally relax.

🌱 Healing begins when buried rage is expressed, as seen in Melissa’s story of recovery.

🙌 Interstitial cystitis is not a curse but communication, and with subconscious rewiring, true healing is possible.

👉 Full resources, courses & community: mindchange.com

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