Inflammatory bowel disease in women: impact on relationship and sexual health

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has an impact on the quality of life of women regarding partner relationships and sexual health. Partner relationship and sexual health in women with IBD has been targeted minimally for investigation in the literature devoted to psychological, relationship, and sexual functioning. The purpose of the present article is to describe the concerns of women with IBD, specifically evaluating individual concerns, partner relationships, and sexual functioning after surgery and to elucidate some of the difficulties in identifying such problems. Gynecologic issues and pregnancy concerns are described. Actual case studies are presented that reveal many of the difficulties women with IBD encounter in their relationships as a consequence of disease activity and treatment interventions. Additional research evaluating relationship difficulties, sexual comfort, and sexual behaviors as a consequence of disease activity is required to understand further and improve the quality of life and well-being of these women.