Gut-focused hypnosis for IBS

IBS Symptoms

IBS symptoms vary between individuals, some experiencing chronic IBS symptoms, others more mild.  Some may experience symptoms worsening in certain situations, or after consuming certain foods.  Others experience it for no identifiable reason.

Many experience abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, wind, and complex bowel habits (diarrhoea and/or constipation).

IBS is often diagnosis by elimination, yet the symptoms are similar to some very serious health conditions and it is always worth having symptoms checked out by your GP.

Hypnosis for IBS

In my practice I have used the North Carolina Protocol for IBS.

The North Carolina Protocol is a 7 week programme, delivered fortnightly, with a home-practice audio to listen to between sessions.  

In their first study, the authors found that 17 out of 18 participants reported improvements  in IBS symptoms - statistically significant improvements were noted in abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel functioning.  IBS-related anxieties were also significantly reduced in this group.

In their second study, the authors found that 21 out of 24 participants reported improvements in the above, also noting a reduction in depression.  Improvements were still noted at 10 month follow-up.  

I have used this protocol with great success within my own private practice, and the author in his 2006 paper noted at the time that he had worked with 70 people in practise, enjoying success, noting that 80% of patients experience marked improvements in their IBS symptoms.

Hypnotherapy and Psychology are recommended for people who don't respond to pharmacological interventions by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).