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Sexual Health and STI Counseling Is Critical but Often Overlooked in IBD
Alexander Goldowsky1, Andrew Eidelberg2, Grace Geeganage1
1Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Dana 501, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
Background:
Sexual health counseling (SHC) is a critical aspect of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) care. Less is known about sexual health counseling in patients who identify as members of a sexual or gender minority (SGM) group.
Aims:
This study aims to characterize patient-reported sexual health counseling in SGM vs. non-SGM patients with IBD.
Methods:
We conducted an anonymous, cross-sectional survey of patients over 18 years old with IBD, currently receiving care at a large, tertiary care IBD center. Data collection included demographics, IBD history, and patient recall of SHC. Patients who self-identified as SGM were compared to non-SGM patients, with subgroup analyses by sex assigned at birth. Means were compared using t tests and percentages compared using chi-square analysis.
Results:
A total of 162 patients (41 SGM and 121 non-SGM) completed the survey. Both groups reported IBD impacted their sexual practices (ranging from 44% non-SGM men to 64% SGM women). SGM patients were more likely to report that their gastroenterologist asked about sexual health compared to non-SGM patients (p < .005). Importantly, 31% of respondents reported seeking SHC from their gastroenterologist (GI), placing GIs among the top sources of information regarding sexual health in this cohort.
Conclusion:
Most study participants reported that IBD has impacted their sexual practices. SHC rates were low in all study groups despite GI providers being a primary source of information. Clearer recommendations on aspects of SHC could improve quality of care for both SGM and non-SGM patients with IBD.
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