Sexual Abuse in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: To Ask or Not to Ask – That Is the Question

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common and costly disorder in Canada. The paucity of medical treatment underscores the importance of examining every element of the management approach. Data exist supporting an increased prevalence of abuse among individuals with IBS. Importantly, the pathophysiology underlying the link between abuse and IBS is increasingly understood. Treatment recommendations by opinion leaders support an abuse inquiry. However, many clinicians view abuse inquiry as an ethical dilemma.