Digestive problems can be distressing and very painful, however as many as three out of four affected women put up with this because they are too embarrassed to talk about it, a new study has found.

It focused on the impact of digestive disorders among Irish women and found that 75% do not seek help due to embarrassment and one in four have missed out on a big event as a result of this problem.

Digestive disorders can include irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, diarrhoea and stomach cramps.

The study found that one in three affected women suffer with ongoing abdominal pain and/or spasms and three in four feel that the problem affects their self-confidence. Among women in the 18-24 age group, 100% say that their self-confidence has been knocked.

However, according to Prof Fergus Shanahan, a consultant gastroenterologist at Cork University Hospital, trying to keep digestive problems a secret can lead to a worsening of the condition.

"The main problem with keeping digestive problems a secret is that the stress and anxiety involved in hiding the problem may end up making symptoms worse, as we know that stress and anxiety can be linked to digestive problems. We also know that positive social support has long been associated with better treatment outcomes," he noted.

The study also found that while many may assume this is a problem for older women, younger women were more likely to have digestive problems. Some 46% of those in the 18-34 age group were affected compared to 21% of women aged 50 or more.

Meanwhile, 40% of younger women suffered with abdominal pain or spasms, compared to 13% of women over 50.

"While everyone's gut microbiota is different, research has shown that IBS is associated with a bacterial imbalance in the gut. Common issues such as change in routine, travel, stress, antibiotics and diet can alter your intestinal bacteria. It is important to establish a regular eating pattern and healthy eating lifestyle," Prof Shanahan added.

The study, which was carried out on behalf of Alflorex, was launched ahead of IBS Awareness Month, which runs throughout April.

For more information on digestive disorders, see our Digestive Disorders Clinic here