Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Its Unique Impact on Body Image: A Qualitative Exploration

Objective There is increasing interest in the relationship between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and body image. Quantitative research demonstrates a high level of body image dissatisfaction among individuals with IBD that is related to poorer quality of life and mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. However, there remains a gap in our understanding of how patients with IBD qualitatively experience their bodies. The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore the impact IBD has on body image and understand the nuances specific to this population. Method Data from co‐design workshop interviews with 10 people with IBD (8 women and 2 men, mean age 35) were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Four main themes were identified: Not Mainstream Body Image; Functionality at the Core of Body Evaluation and Quality of Life; Eating, Symptom Control, and Body Image; and Unpredictability, Invisibility, and Social Appraisals. Conclusions Themes captured the unique, pervasive impact IBD has on body image, quality of life, eating behaviour, and mental health. Results highlight the need to target body image concerns and mental wellbeing for people with IBD.