In 2005 a research breakthrough was made using hypnotherapy in the treatment of IBS, by Peter Whorwell, Director of the South Manchester Functional Bowel Service and Professor of Medicine and Gastroenterology.
For over twnety years Professor Whorwell has been researching the use of gut-directed hypnotherapy. Most recently, 250 patients who had suffered from IBS for over two years were given twelve 1hour sessions.
70% Success rate
Professor Whorwell reported that the treatment has a success rate of about 70%, and hypnosis, although it is labour-intensive, could be a highly effective treatment for the condition; and a less expensive alternative to the new, costly drugs coming onto the market.
Professor Whorwell explains “IBS is ideal for treatment with hypnosis, as there is no structural damage to the body...” “During the hypnotherapy, sufferers learn how to influence and gain control of their gut function, and then seem to be able to change the way the brain modulates their gut activity...".
"We’ve found it to help all the symptoms, whereas some of the drugs available reduce only a few...”.