Multidimensional fatigue mediates the relationship between sexual quality of life and perceived stress in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Background: This study aimed to assess perceived stress levels in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and explore their associations with multidimensional fatigue and sexual quality of life. Methods: A total of 252 patients diagnosed with IBD who visited the gastroenterology department of a major hospital in AnHui Province between March 2022 and June 2023 were included. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS), the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20). Results: Participants reported a mean perceived stress score of 39.88 ± 7.92, a multidimensional fatigue score of 52.66 ± 13.34, and a sexual quality of life score of 15.98 ± 4.17. Significant positive correlations were observed between perceived stress, sexual quality of life, and multidimensional fatigue (r = 0.402 and 0.643, respectively; both P < 0.001). Bootstrap analysis revealed that multidimensional fatigue significantly mediated the relationship between sexual quality of life and perceived stress, accounting for 61.8% of the total effect. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of timely interventions to reduce perceived stress in patients with IBD. Particular attention should be given to improving sexual quality of life and managing fatigue. Clinicians are encouraged to adopt personalized cognitive strategies to alleviate stress and enhance psychological well-being.