Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a predominantly female condition, with the current ratio estimated at 2-2.5:1 compared to men¹. We are not fully sure why it affects women more than men, as this has not been extensively investigated. However, there are links being drawn between situations that occur more commonly with women than men.

Domestic abuse is one of these such incidents. This is not to say that domestic abuse does not happen to men. Unfortunately, intimate partner violence can happen to any one of us. However, statistically, it happens more so to women. The recent crime survey for England and Wales² found:

• 27% of women have experienced domestic abuse since the age of 16yrs old.
• 5% of domestic abuse related crimes were reported by women to the police.
• 1 in 5 adults experience domestic abuse during there lifetime.
  • For women, this is 1 in 4
  • For men, this is 1 in 6-7².

One less-discussed consequences of domestic abuse are the development of chronic health conditions, such as IBS³. Survivors of domestic abuse do not only struggle with trauma in the mind, but trauma also manifesting in the body.

This blog will explore the link between domestic abuse, chronic stress and IBS.

The gut-brain connection

IBS is defined as a disorder of the gut-brain interaction⁴. Our gut and our brain are connected by numerous pathways in the body. The main system that connects the two parts is the vagus nerve. Which is integral for communicating signals between the gut and the brain^3,4,5.

Studies have shown that psychological stress has a significant impact on intestinal sensitivity and motility within the gut. Therefore, chronic stress or anxiety can lead to chronic gut symptoms such as pain, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation^3,4,5.

Those who suffer from domestic abuse experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Which leads to an adaption of the central nervous system. Prolonged exposure to fear, control and violence can lead to survivors constantly being in a hypervigilant state. The constant state of ‘fight or flight’ makes the nervous system more sensitive, which can amplify the perception of pain^3,5,6.

Due to this, research has found that domestic abuse alone (excluding other factors) can increase one’s risk of developing IBS^{3, 5, 6}. In one study, up to 50% of women who report domestic abuse to the police, were found to have IBS⁵. This highlights the role that trauma can play on the way one’s body functions

Why is this connection important?

Understanding this connection between IBS and domestic abuse is SO important for healthcare professions and survivors. By understanding the connection, we’re able to make sure their IBS is being treated effectively and completely. Giving compassion and grace where needed.

If this connection gets missed, then the symptoms may be treated in isolation and we may miss the true cause. This could also put more pressure on the survivor if treatments don’t work.

How can dietitians help?

Managing Symptoms:

Dietitian’s are trained to treat medical conditions such as IBS. It’s important to seek a Dietitians who is FODMAP trained. Therefore enabling the development of personalised dietary plans to alleviate IBS symptoms and supporting gut microbiota.

Providing Trauma-Sensitive Care:

Dietitians are holistic and therefore take on the whole picture of the IBS sufferer, not just symptoms in isolation. Creating a safe, empathetic space and teaching mindfulness-based eating techniques to address stress-related gut issues.

Collaborating Holistically:

Dietitians will be able to recommend other techniques or therapies that will aid you on your IBS journey to address both physical and emotional health.

Empowering Survivors:

Dietitians provide education on the gut-brain connection, which may not have been spotted or understood before. This can promote long-term self-care for recovery and resilience.

Dietitians offer essential, compassionate support to address the unique health challenges survivors face.

Help, support, and hope for the future

Surviving domestic abuse is an act of courage, and healing—both emotionally and physically—is possible. If you’re living with the aftermath of abuse and struggling with IBS, know that support is available. Reaching out to Dietitian’s, healthcare professionals and support services can set you on the path to recovery.

Remember, you are not alone.

For help, contact domestic abuse helplines or local domestic abuse support organisations.

If IBS is affecting your quality of life, and you need more guidance, seek advice from a IBS and FODMAP trained dietitian who understands the connection between trauma and digestive health. Healing the gut starts with healing the mind.

Book with me below to discuss how I can best support you.

HC Dietetics is committed to helping domestic abuse by supporting domestic abuse charities. For more information, please check at the bottom of the homepage.

1. Kim, Y. S., & Kim, N. (2018). Sex-Gender Differences in Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Journal of neurogastroenterology and motility, 24(4), 544–558. https://doi.org/10.5056/jnm18082
2. Office for National Statistics (ONS), 2022. Domestic abuse in England and Wales overview: November 2022. [online] Available at: https://www.ons.gov.uk/releases/domesticabuseinenglandandwalesoverviewnovember2022 [Accessed 25 Nov. 2024]
3. Chandan, J. S., Keerthy, D., Gokhale, K. M., Bradbury-Jones, C., Raza, K., Bandyopadhyay, S., Taylor, J., & Nirantharakumar, K. (2021). The association between exposure to domestic abuse in women and the development of syndromes indicating central nervous system sensitization: A retrospective cohort study using UK primary care records. European journal of pain (London, England), 25(6), 1283–1291. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1750
4. Black, C. J., & Ford, A. C. (2020). Best management of irritable bowel syndrome. Frontline gastroenterology, 12(4), 303–315. https://doi.org/10.1136/flgastro-2019-101298
5. Perona, M., Benasayag, R., Perelló, A., Santos, J., Zárate, N., Zárate, P., & Mearin, F. (2005). Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in women who report domestic violence to the police. Clinical gastroenterology and hepatology : the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterological Association, 3(5), 436–441. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1542-3565(04)00776-1
6. Becker-Dreps, S., Morgan, D., Peña, R., Cortes, L., Martin, C. F., & Valladares, E. (2010). Association between intimate partner violence and irritable bowel syndrome: a population-based study in Nicaragua. Violence against women, 16(7), 832–845. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077801210374816