IBD, Men and Sexual Issues: Emerging Data

[CoastWatcher]

Women present with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) far more frequently than men. As such, a considerable literature on sexual issues in women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but relatively little attention has been paid to these aspects in men.

• A review of the available literature and to provide the best management of sexual and reproductive issues in male patients with IBD was undertaken.
• The scientific literature on sexual and reproductive issues in men with IBD was reviewed.
• Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis increases the risk of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction by up to 26%. A treatment with sildenafil can be effective.
• Sperm banking should be advised to young men with IBD before surgery.
• Both sulfasalazine and methotrexate may be responsible for reversible sexual dysfunction and infertility. Furthermore, sulfasalazine should be switched to mesalazine at least 4 months before conception because of a higher risk of congenital malformations in pregnancies fathered by men treated with this drug.
• Psychotropic drugs, frequently used in IBD, may cause sexual dysfunction up to 80%. Last but not the least, voluntary childlessness occurs frequently, mainly because of concerns about medication safety in pregnancy and fear of transmitting disease. Accurate counseling, and where necessary, psychological support can decrease any misperceptions and fears. Close collaboration between the gastroenterologist and the patient is recommended for the best management of these relevant, neglected aspects in men with IBD.

"Sexual and reproductive issues and inflammatory bowel disease: a neglected topic in men," European journal of gastroenterology & hepatology. 2018 Jan 18, https://www.urotoday.com/recent-abs...y-bowel-disease-a-neglected-topic-in-men.html

 

[Saul]

Unrelated to sex issues, but may help people with IDB / Crohns.

https://www.principesactifs.org/israeli-study-suggests-cannabis-relieves-crohns-disease/