Can IBS hypnotherapy help you overcome bowel urgency?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. One of the most challenging symptoms of IBS is bowel urgency, which refers to the sudden and urgent need to use the bathroom.

Managing bowel urgency is a crucial aspect of living with IBS. One evidence-based approach that has been shown to be effective is gut-directed hypnotherapy. This type of therapy works by correcting the miscommunication that is present in the gut-brain axis and by reducing stress and anxiety that can exacerbate symptoms.

Research has shown that gut-directed hypnotherapy is an effective treatment for IBS and bowel urgency, resulting in a significant reduction of symptoms and an improvement in quality of life. A study by Dr. Peter Whorwell and colleagues at the University of Manchester in the UK, published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology (2004), found that gut-directed hypnotherapy is an effective treatment for IBS, with 80% of patients experiencing a significant improvement in symptoms.

Another study by Dr. Bente Lydersen and colleagues at the University of Bergen in Norway, published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research (2012) found that gut-directed hypnotherapy was effective in over 80% of cases, with patients experiencing a significant reduction in IBS symptoms, including abdominal pain and bowel urgency.

In addition to gut-directed hypnotherapy, there are other lifestyle changes that can help reduce symptoms of IBS. Diet plays a crucial role in managing IBS symptoms. It is important to avoid foods that trigger symptoms, such as fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating a diversity of plant-based foods that include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support the gut.

Regular gentle exercise also helps in reducing stress and anxiety, which can worsen symptoms. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques can also help in reducing symptoms.

Living with IBS and bowel urgency can be difficult, and it can greatly impact your career. It can lead to sick days and decreased productivity, which can affect performance and advancement opportunities. It can also affect your personal life. You may end up avoiding social activities, travel, and even intimate relationships out of fear of having an accident or being in a situation where a bathroom may not be readily available. It can lead to isolation, depression, and anxiety.

Therefore, it's important for employers to be aware of this condition and to provide support to employees who have IBS. This includes providing flexible working arrangements, such as the ability to work from home or to take breaks when needed. 

If you or someone you know is living with IBS and bowel urgency, it's important to seek help. With the right support, it is possible to overcome urgency and significantly reduce symptoms long term. Speak to your doctor about the best treatments for you, and don't hesitate to explore gut-directed hypnotherapy as an option.

With the right management, you can lead a fulfilling life, free from the constraints of IBS and bowel urgency. It's important to remember that you're not alone in this, there are many people who are going through the same thing, and there are many resources available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. For details of specialist online support with IBS visit my profile.