Beames, Charlotte; (2024) The Visceral Pain Experience of Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Doctoral thesis (D.Clin.Psy), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

Introduction: Pain is a common and debilitating symptom of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Gender is also thought to have an impact on living with pain. Yet, there is little research in this area about the psychological experience of painful IBD for women. This study will aim to elaborate on women’s experiences of living with this chronic illness and to highlight priorities for research. Methods: This thematic synthesis aimed to bring together the findings of studies exploring the psychological experience of painful IBD for women. A systematic search process retrieved 8 relevant qualitative studies which were subjected to thematic synthesis. Results: Fifteen themes (four main themes and eleven sub-themes) were generated. The main themes were ‘It’s just too personal’, ‘It’s all about timing’, ‘Let’s talk about uncomfortable’, and ‘I don’t feel like a chronically ill person’. Discussion: The findings brought together the current research literature on the experience of IBD for women. In particular, the review identified that female gender did not play a central role in the experience of IBD, and rather highlighted challenges associated with disclosure and shame, discomfort and pain, restriction, and identity.

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