N27 What people want! Exploring inflammatory bowel disease patients’ perspectives on healthcare professionals addressing sexual well-being
S. Fourie1, W. Czuber-Dochan2, C. Norton2
1University of Oxford, WIMM, Oxford, UK, 2King’s College London, Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing- Midwifery and Palliative Care, London, UK
Background
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects every aspect of one’s life, yet no routine assessment for the impact on sexuality is made. Our aim was to explore patients’ perspective on healthcare professionals (HCPs) addressing sexuality/sexual well-being concerns.
Methods
This was a qualitative narrative study. Inclusion criteria were any sexual orientation and with known IBD for longer than 18 months. Data were collected via semi structured interviews and anonymous narrative accounts submitted via Google Forms. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.
Results
Fourteen adults, 4 male and 10 female, took part. Eleven participants were from the UK, one from the USA of America and one for South Africa. The following main themes and subthemes were identified:
Conclusion
Our findings indicate that communicating on sexuality/sexual well-being is a problematic area of IBD care. HCPs must be cognisant of the sexual well-being concerns and needs of those living with IBD, who want this topic discussed routinely, as part of a holistic approach to their clinical care.