Sexual abuse and IBS?? - Rape / Sexual Abuse Message Board

lil red chevy · 12-12-2002, 08:43 AM

Hello,

I have what may seem like a very strange question. I have had IBS for the past 10 years or so just before I got pregnant with my second child. I was refered to a specialist and the first question he asked me was have I ever been sexually abused? This floored me because I in fact had been abused as a child. Has anyone else ever heard of this being a cause of IBS? I know that stress is a main factor and I do have that but sexual abuse? I would love to hear everyone's thoughts on this topic. Thanks!!

lil red chevy

vogue · 12-12-2002, 10:10 AM

Well, there was a study done that found an inordinate amount of people with IBS had been abused.. higher than normal amount. I don't have it right now, google would probably turn it up.

wishing you well,
ben

lil red chevy · 12-12-2002, 01:52 PM

Hi Ben,

Thanks for the reply. I was beginning to think that maybe I was crazy or something. I will most certainly look into this study and its results futher if I can. I just really wasnt sure if my doctor was reaching or not. I guess our past really does catch up with us!! If this is in fact because I was abused maybe getting help will put me back on track??

lil red chevy

vogue · 12-12-2002, 02:02 PM

=]

I wish I had something to tell you. My guess is anything that you let haunt you for years can't be good for your health. If a professional can help you deal with something, it can't hurt. Anxiety and worry I think make IBS much worse, and there are probably both associated with a horrible experience like that, even if subconciously.

Wishing you well,
ben

lil red chevy · 12-12-2002, 02:44 PM

Ben,

Thanks for the chat. Take care and Have a great Christmas!!

lil red chevy