8 Reasons to Choose Hypnosis as a Remedy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and are looking for a natural way to reduce your symptoms, hypnosis may be the answer. Research has shown that hypnosis is an effective treatment for relieving IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. In this blog post, we’ll explore why hypnosis is a great option for finding relief from IBS and getting back to a comfortable, pain-free life. 

Hypnosis for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

People all over the world are affected by the gastrointestinal disorder known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is estimated that 10-15% of adults are likely to experience IBS during their lives, with the associated chronic symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation having a major impact on their quality of life. As a natural solution to alleviate IBS symptoms, research suggests hypnosis may be the answer.

Clinical studies have shown that hypnosis for IBS can be an effective treatment option. During a hypnosis session, the therapist guides the patient into a deeply relaxed state while offering suggestions of soothing imagery and sensations. This promotes the relaxation response in the body, which has been successfully utilized in treating a variety of health conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and IBS.

Gut-focused hypnotherapy works by employing the same imagery and relaxation techniques. By addressing the mind-gut connection and helping patients manage their symptoms through relaxation techniques and positive suggestions, hypnosis offers a promising alternative to traditional medication and invasive treatments. If you suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), there are many reasons why hypnosis could be an effective remedy for you.

1. It’s Natural and Drug-Free

One of the most significant advantages of hypnosis for IBS is that it’s drug-free, making it a safer option for those who cannot tolerate medication or those who prefer not to use medication. Most pharmaceutical drugs do not cure IBS but merely reduce symptoms. The relief provided by these drugs is often short-lived and may come with unpleasant side effects.

A study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology found that Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy was more effective in treating IBS symptoms than other conventional treatments. Patients who underwent hypnosis had a significant reduction in their symptoms, compared to those who received only standard medical care.

What’s more, Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy teaches IBS sufferers to control their IBS symptoms by reducing the brain’s sensitivity to IBS triggers. It helps patients gain control over their symptoms by teaching them relaxation techniques and how to use their imagination to visualize their gut in a healthy and pain-free state.  All of this is achieved without the use of pharmaceutical drugs, which makes Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy a safe and effective treatment option for IBS patients.

2. Hypnosis is Personalized

One of the most complex aspects of IBS is that it manifests differently in every individual. Each person’s digestive tract and microbiota are unique, and therefore the symptoms that arise are driven by different factors. While pharmaceuticals are commonly used to treat IBS, response rates vary and they can sometimes produce uncomfortable side effects.

Medical hypnosis is very specific to the type of disorder a patient has, making hypnosis an excellent option for those who have failed to respond to traditional medical interventions for their GI condition. Gut-directed hypnotherapy works by calming the gut and reducing the perception of pain, as well as addressing the underlying psychological stressors that may contribute to IBS symptoms. With hypnosis, patients receive personalized treatment that takes into account their unique symptoms and needs, which can lead to more effective outcomes than a one-size-fits-all approach.

3. It’s effects are long-lasting 

One of the greatest benefits of choosing hypnosis as a remedy for IBS is its long-lasting effects. Unlike medication or a change in diet, which you may have to follow indefinitely to keep your IBS symptoms at bay, hypnosis can provide lasting relief. This is because hypnosis targets the underlying causes of IBS, such as stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns, rather than simply treating the symptoms. By addressing these root causes, hypnosis can help patients to experience long-lasting relief from their symptoms. 

In one of the longest studies ever conducted in this area, patients who underwent a program of hypnosis for IBS saw significant improvements in their symptoms that lasted until they were in remission, almost 5 years after their treatment. Research on the long-term follow-up of patients who have benefited from hypnosis shows that most remain well with many requiring no further medication. 

4. Hypnosis is Affordable and Accessible

Another significant advantage of hypnosis as a remedy for IBS is its affordability and accessibility. It doesn’t require any medication or costly medical equipment, making it a cost-effective solution compared to other treatment options for IBS.

While hypnosis typically was performed in person with a qualified hypnotist, other options are now available. Many trained hypnotists are now available through teletherapy, which is generally more affordable and eliminates transportation costs.

You might choose to learn self-hypnosis and practice at home, using free or low-cost resources, such as audio recordings or smartphone apps. This option makes it accessible for those who have a tight budget or live in remote areas with limited access to healthcare.

5. It’s supported by research

Hypnosis has been used as a treatment for IBS for over 30 years, with some of the earliest studies dating back to the 1980s. The first recorded hypnosis protocol for IBS patients was introduced by Peter Whorwell in 1984. Since then, more than 30 studies have been published in the literature highlighting the benefits of this treatment. 

A review article in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics analyzed the results of 18 trials on the effectiveness of gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH) for IBS. The authors concluded that GDH is effective in the management of IBS, with patients experiencing significant improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel movement frequency.

6. Hypnosis Addresses the Root Cause of IBS

Hypnosis for IBS works by addressing the underlying factors that contribute to the disorder. These factors may include stress, anxiety, and overactivity in the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. If you’re suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, it can be frustrating to find relief. While medications and dietary changes may alleviate symptoms, hypnosis can help address the root cause of IBS.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is often linked to stress and anxiety, which can affect the digestive system. Hypnosis is a way to access the subconscious mind, where negative thought patterns and beliefs about digestion can be addressed and transformed. By tapping into your subconscious mind, you can change the way your body responds to stress and improve the overall functioning of your digestive system.

7. It improves other aspects of your life

Beyond just addressing the symptoms of IBS, hypnosis has been shown to positively impact one’s general outlook, mindfulness, and psychological status.  A study published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology compared the effects of 12 sessions of gut-directed hypnotherapy to the effects of 12 sessions of traditional forms of psychotherapy. 

After trying hypnosis, nearly two-thirds of the people in the study reported improved quality of life, feeling happier, more mindful, and fewer IBS symptoms. After fifteen months, twice as many patients who were treated with hypnosis reported improved overall quality of life than those who were. In essence, hypnosis can help to improve multiple aspects of your life, allowing you to lead a more fulfilling and satisfying existence.

8. Hypnosis is Safe and Effective

Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can be used to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It involves a form of relaxation and meditation that can help you access your subconscious mind and make positive changes. It’s also a safe and effective technique that can be used to help manage the symptoms of IBS.

If you’re struggling with IBS, it’s important to consider all of your treatment options, including hypnosis. Not only is it personalized, drug-free, and accessible, but it can also help to improve your quality of life in multiple ways. With hypnosis, you can take control of your symptoms and find comfort in your own mind.

At Modern Day Hypnosis, we offer several routes for finding relief from IBS with the use of hypnosis. Book an appointment with us today to get started, or check out Self-Applied Hypnosis Techniques to learn self-hypnosis from a certified hypnotist. Either way, you’ll be on your way towards a life free of IBS and its associated symptoms. 

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