Impact of Irritable Bowel Syndrome on Health-Related Quality of Life among Females in the Childbearing Period

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent disorder of gut–brain interaction, marked by recurrent abdominal pain and changed bowel habits. IBS symptoms frequently affect daily activities, reduce health-related quality of life, and hinder productivity. The study aimed to spotlight on effect of irritable bowel syndrome on the quality of life of females at the childbearing period by determining the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome among females attending maternity services at the primary health care unit, Mit Ghamer, Dakahlia governorate, and assessing its impact on their quality of life. Methods: study participants were interviewed using four structured questionnaires: sociodemographic scale, Rome IV criteria, Bristol stool form scale, and validated Arabic irritable bowel quality of life questionnaire. Results: The study included 192 females at the childbearing period. The prevalence of IBS among the studied sample was 26.04%, and 42% of the cases had IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant). There were statistically significant increases in the mean scores of dysphoria, health worry, food avoidance, and the social domain of quality of life. Participants with IBS had a worse quality of life relative to healthy females. Conclusion: Irritable bowel syndrome is common among females in the childbearing period and worsens their quality of life. Family physicians should screen females attending the maternity unit for IBS and assess their quality of life. IBS-affected patients need medical and psychological support. Healthy lifestyle modifications are recommended to improve their quality of life.