Some women with IC experience a worsening of their IC symptoms the week prior to their periods, while others experience horrendous periods which further flares their IC.  Personally, when my IC was at its worse, the worst part of my cycle was during ovulation which was marked my intense painful labia swelling which could last for three to five days.  Wearing clothing was unbearable and there wasn't much to ease the pain. 

With some work with a TCM doctor, herbs, diet and acupuncture (three hard years of work) my ovulation pain is minimal to non-existent and now I am working on my moon time (period) pains.  I have found a list of natural products and exercises to be helpful during this time:

• Rest
• Extra intake of water
• Take one Aspirin the day before moon time is supposed to begin (do not take if you are allergic to Aspirin)
• A warm bath or shower if cramps are severe
• Eating smaller meals such as crackers and bananas which are high in potassium, which studies have shown is effective to ease cramping
• Take natural herbal formulas for cramping such as Cramp Relief! by Wish Garden
• Some might find that a cold or ice pack on the lower back or stomach to be helpful
• You can use a little bit of Yin Care on a cotton ball or cloth to help you feel more deodorized
• Don't forget to only use moon time products that won't flare up your IC /Vulvodynia such as pads and tampons made by Natracare (made from 100% organic cotton)
• Drinking raspberry leaf tea

I hope that you are able to find the products and exercises that will ease both the pain of your moon time and of your IC.  Allow yourself the chance to relax and seek out health care providers that support you and your health decisions.

I am woman!  I am invincible!  I am pooped!  ~Author Unknown