Gut directed hypnotherapy in irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal (GI) condition characterized by abdominal pain, altered bowel habit (constipation and diarrhoea) and abdominal distension (Spiller et al, 2007). It is the most commonly seen condition in GI outpatient clinics with a prevalence rate of 14-24% in women and 5-19% in men (Spanier et al, 2003).

The characteristic remitting and relapsing nature of IBS makes it notoriously difficult to manage, and conventional medical approaches are often unsatisfactory (Hayee and Forgacs, 2007). There has been increased attention to the role of lifestyle advice, psychological therapies and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the management of IBS.