What is IBS?

A number of studies have concluded strong evidence of the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome is a common disorder that affects 1:5 adults in the U.K. although the figures could be higher as many people don’t seek medical advice. The main symptoms include abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. IBS is often a long-term condition and symptoms can fluctuate over time. IBS can be difficult and frustrating to live with having a big impact on daily life. IBS tends to be more common among women and people of a younger age.

What causes IBS?
The exact cause of IBS remains unclear but the condition has been linked to gastroenteritis, an infection in the stomach and bowels, inflammatory bowel disease and studies suggest IBS sufferers have different levels of bacteria in their gut.

Research also suggests there is a correlation between gut and brain health, known as the gut brain axis. This is a complex communication network that links the emotional and cognitive areas of the brain with the digestive system. Stress, anxiety and burnout can disrupt this communication, leading to changes in gut mobility and sensitivity. Stress triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which impact on gut function, leading to sensitivity and inflammation. Over time, these changes can make the digestive system more prone to IBS symptoms.

Furthermore, workplace stress often leads to poor lifestyle choices such as irregular eating habits, a diet high in fatty foods, excess caffeine or alcohol use, poor hydration and disrupted sleep patterns. These factors can disrupt normal digestive processes and contribute to IBS problems. Chronic stress can also weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and inflammation.

Some studies suggest IBS tends to run in families which points to a genetics role but hormonal changes can also be a factor in women. Food intolerances such as spicy foods can be trigger. Obesity and physical inactivity can increase the risk of onset.

Several other conditions can also cause symptoms like IBS such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It’s therefore important to consult your general practitioner first to rule out any underlying medical causes.

Hypnotherapy for IBS
In particular, studies report gut directed hypnotherapy has significantly reduced symptoms in around 80% of people. Gut directed hypnotherapy is a specialised form of hypnotherapy that aims to alleviate the symptoms associated with IBS by targeting the gut-brain axis. It involves using hypnotic techniques such as visualisation and suggestion to help calm the digestive system and enable individuals to gain more control over their symptoms. It helps to manage pain and discomfort and improve overall functioning in the bowel. It offers a more holistic approach to treatment and sessions can be tailored towards the individuals needs, by focusing on specific issues such as managing anxiety or stress. Hypnotherapy also helps to manage associated stress and anxiety and improves overall quality of life. While it’s not a cure, studies suggest it can significantly reduce symptom frequency and severity.

Reach Hypnotherapy & well being service in Liverpool provides gut directed hypnotherapy for IBS. If you would like to book a session or arrange a free discovery call, please do not hesitate to contact me using the enquiry form.