‘My sexual desires, everything, my normal life just stops’; a qualitative study of male sexual health in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract Aim To describe and interpret the sexual health experiences of men with IBD. Design Interpretive qualitative study. Methods In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 22 men with a diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Interviews were digitally audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using constant comparative, thematic analysis. Results Three themes were identified from interview data: (1) the disease shapes intimate connections, (2) the disease thwarts sexual experiences and (3) the disease disrupts male gender norms. Men reported that active disease lowered libido and could change pre‐, inter‐ and post‐coital sexual practices. All participants noted that health professionals did not initiate the discussion of sexual health and well‐being needs in the outpatient hospital setting. Men who engaged in receptive anal sex reported a lack of disease‐specific guidance and understanding from professionals. Conclusion Inflammatory bowel disease can negatively impact the sexual well‐being, gender identity and activities of men. Further research is required to identify the care preferences of men with IBD and clarify the barriers and facilitators to sexual health assessment so that nurses may better support the health needs of this population. Implications for the Profession and Patient Care This study highlights the need for sexual health and well‐being support that is specific to disease and gender in IBD. There is a paucity of information and guidance for men with peri‐anal disease and proctitis who engage in receptive anal sex, which requires urgent attention. Reporting Method Reporting follows the COREQ checklist. Patient or Public Contribution A patient and public involvement group informed the development of the study design. The group reviewed public facing documents and interview guides. One member of the group provided comments on the identified themes.