Whether we have just been diagnosed or have been navigating IBD for many years, dating, relationships and intimacy can be a challenging hurdle to cross. However, it is possible and many people with IBD are successfully dating or are in loving, supportive long-term relationships.
When feeling overwhelmed, it is important to always reach out to loved ones, friends and our healthcare team for support. There may also be local support groups available via your local patient advocacy group. Some helpful websites include the following:
- Ostomy.org - General sexual health information with an ostomy.
- Crohn's & Colitis Foundation - A fact sheet on sex, intimacy and IBD.
- Girls with Guts - A private forum that has information for LGBTQ+ identifying females with IBD and/or ostomies.
- South Asian IBD Alliance (SAIA) - Conducted talks on sexuality and intimacy, and on pride & IBD for South Asians living with IBD and/or ostomies.
- Everyday Health - How to Talk to Your Doctor About Sex if You Have IBD
- IBD Africa Health - Includes YouTube videos of a patient event about relationships, intimacy and sexuality.
- Convatec - Intimacy Guidance