Background: Hypnosis is a tool that utilizes suggestion to help individuals or investigate in scientific fields. On the other hand, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that leads to abdominal pain and changes in the intestines, with unclear causes. Scientific literature seems to demonstrate that hypnosis, in conjunction with medical treatments and even cognitive-behavioral therapy, helps reduce the symptomatology associated with this condition. Objective and Method: Therefore, the aim of this review is to evaluate the existing evidence and estimate and assess its impact. A rigorous search was conducted in the PubMed and SCOPUS databases, where a total of 19 conclusive articles were found and included in the final review. Results: Nineteen randomized controlled clinical trials evaluating the use of hypnosis in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome were included, encompassing patients aged between 18 and 65. It was found that the group of patients undergoing hypnosis sessions experienced a significant improvement in symptoms compared to control groups receiving standard treatments or placebos (p(F)<0.001). Hypnosis demonstrated an average reduction of 50% in the frequency and severity of abdominal pain, bloating, and alterations in bowel movements. Conclusion: In this systematic review, hypnosis shows promise as a complementary therapeutic approach for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. However, it is important to note that further high-quality research and randomized controlled trials are needed to strengthen the evidence and establish more robust recommendations regarding the use of hypnosis in the management of irritable bowel syndrome.

Treball Final de Grau en Psicologia. Codi: PS1048. Curs: 2022/2023