FacebookIrritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a digestive disorder that affects both men and women. Up to 15% of American adults struggle with IBS, though the condition appears to be more common in women than men. Some of the most common symptoms include changes in bowel movements, abdominal pain or cramping, and bloating.
The exact cause of IBS is unknown which makes it a little tricky to treat. Experts suggest factors such as abnormalities in intestinal muscle contractions or the nervous system may play a role. Severe digestive tract infections and changes to the gut microbiome could increase a person’s risk for IBS as well.
While IBS affects people differently, there is some research to suggest that certain symptoms are more common in women versus men. Here’s what you need to know.
IBS Symptoms in Women
While there is no singular known cause for IBS, intestinal permeability and the gut microbiome appear to play a role. Some research suggests that female sex hormones significantly affect a woman’s susceptibility to stress as well as gut motility and pain perception. Many women experience an increase in IBS symptoms before and during their menstrual cycle.
Women who suffer from IBS tend to report constipation more often than men and some experts suggest it may be linked to the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone which have been shown to inhibit smooth muscle contraction. Many individuals with IBS experience abdominal pain or cramping but women tend to report pain that is more frequent, more severe, and longer lasting.
The roles of sex hormones in regulating intestinal permeability and modulating the gut-brain interaction require further investigation, but experts have made a few observations. Self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal bloating and flatulence appear to be higher in women than in men, as are reports of dissatisfaction with bowel habits. Several studies have also revealed that women with IBS tend to report a lower quality of life than men.
IBS Symptoms in Men
Men don’t experience cyclical hormonal changes to the same degree as women, but some experts suggest that differences in IBS symptoms between men and women have something to do with biological and anatomical differences. For example, some researchers suggest that the male gut may simply be less sensitive to IBS symptoms which may account for the higher report rate in women.
Men who do struggle with IBS tend to report lower levels of pain than women. Some research suggests it may have something to do with the analgesic effect of androgens like testosterone which have also been reported to help protect against the development of chronic pain disorders.
Both men and women may find their IBS negatively affects their sexual relationships. In some cases, IBS is linked to a decrease in sexual desire and, for women, may contribute to pain or discomfort during intercourse.
Some research suggests that men with IBS are less likely than women to avoid certain foods, domestic activities, socialization, and sexual intercourse. More than measurable effects on work and relationships, however, tend to be the way IBS symptoms interrupt their understanding of masculinity. This may, in part, be related to the “female health concern” label that is often attached to IBS.
Managing Your IBS
If you think you might have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it is important to speak with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. While there is no definitive test for IBS, your doctor may recommend certain diagnostic tests to rule out other digestive disorders as the cause of your symptoms.
It is worth noting that there are some differences in the way men and women experience IBS, but more research is needed to fully understand these differences. Unfortunately, men in Western countries are less likely to report symptoms of IBS to their doctors, which can limit the amount of data available for study.
Once you have spoken with your doctor, you can work together to develop a plan for managing your IBS and reducing symptoms. One potential treatment option is following a low FODMAP diet, which may help to identify and avoid certain food triggers that can worsen IBS symptoms. Paying attention to how your body reacts to different foods can help you identify your personal triggers and take steps to avoid them in the future.
Overall, it is important to work with your healthcare professional to find the best treatment approach for your individual needs and symptoms.
