Men’s experiences of sexual health, well-being, and healthcare when living with inflammatory bowel disease: an interpretive qualitative study

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition of the gastrointestinal tract with a peak age onset of 15-30 years. The condition has a significant impact on sexual health and well-being. The predominant focus of research to date has been on women, with studies on men generally limited to erectile dysfunction. Research that is male-specific and considers the physiological and psychosocial impacts of the disease on sexual health is needed to direct accessible, appropriate, and positive healthcare.

Aims: To describe and interpret: (1) the sexual health experiences and care needs of men with IBD, and (2) health professionals’ experiences and understanding of sexual health and care needs in men with IBD.

Methods: A systematic scoping review mapped out the existent literature. Subsequently, two interpretive descriptive qualitative studies were conducted. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and auto-photography, then analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings: The scoping review demonstrated men’s sexual health in IBD is currently evaluated by assessing erectile function. The qualitative studies revealed that the sexual health of men with IBD is not limited to effects on erectile function. Men reported negative impacts on intimate partnerships, self-identity, sexual engagement and a lack of specialised information and healthcare support. Data gathered from healthcare practitioners highlighted difficulties in raising sexual health discussions with men with IBD and the need for support to deliver specialist care in this domain.

Conclusion: This is the first study to investigate and describe how the symptoms and chronicity of IBD can profoundly affect the sexual activities and well-being of men in a gender-specific way. Further research is required to identify the care preferences of men, the training needs of healthcare practitioners, and refine theoretical conceptualisation of the intersection of gender, chronic disease, and sexual well-being.