The Truth About IBS: What Women Need to Know

Episode Summary

IBS is more than just a “sensitive stomach”—it’s a complex and often misunderstood condition, especially in women. In this episode of Fempower Health, host Georgie Kovacs interviews renowned gastroenterologist Dr. Peter Whorwell, a pioneer in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and professor of medicine in the UK and author of Take Control of Your IBS: The Complete Guide to Managing Your Symptoms. With decades of experience and groundbreaking research, Dr. Whorwell unpacks why women are disproportionately affected by IBS, how the brain-gut connection plays a critical role, and what treatment options actually work.

Whether you're a woman battling chronic bloating, unpredictable bowel habits, and pain, or a clinician seeking evidence-based guidance, this episode delivers real talk on a condition that’s often minimized and mistreated. Georgie’s signature style—intellectually bold, honest, and deeply empathetic—makes this conversation a must-listen.

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Discussion Points

• What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and why is it so misunderstood?

• Why does IBS affect women more than men?

• How does the brain-gut connection influence IBS symptoms?

• What role does trauma or anxiety play in digestive disorders?

• How effective are low FODMAP diets for IBS?

• Why are women often dismissed when reporting IBS symptoms?

• What are the most promising treatments for IBS today?

• How can clinicians better support women struggling with gut health?

• What are the differences between IBS, IBD, and other GI conditions?

About the Expert

Dr. Peter Whorwell is a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Gastroenterologist based in Manchester, UK and author of Take Control of Your IBS: The Complete Guide to Managing Your Symptoms. He’s one of the world’s foremost authorities on IBS and has dedicated his career to understanding and treating this complex condition, particularly as it presents in women. He pioneered the use of hypnotherapy for IBS and continues to lead research into brain-gut disorders.

Disclaimer

The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.

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