Developing an Intervention to Improve Sexual Health Assessment and Care in Men With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

AIM: To co-produce a prototype intervention to help nurses improve the assessment and care of the sexual health needs of men with inflammatory bowel disease. BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel disease can have a significant impact on the sexual health and well-being of men, but has largely been neglected in research and clinical guidelines. Men with the disease report that sexual health is not discussed during consultations, while healthcare practitioners describe a lack of confidence to initiate sexual health assessments. At present, no evidence-based tool exists to support nurses in detecting, assessing, and providing care for the sexual health of men with the disease. DESIGN: A mixed-methods study shaped by phase 1 of the Medical Research Council's framework for the development of complex interventions. METHODS: (1) Cross-sectional surveys of (i) men with inflammatory bowel disease, (ii) nurses, and (iii) inflammatory bowel disease services to determine the current state of sexual health provision across the UK National Health Service. (2) Semi-structured interviews with men and the partners of men with IBD and asynchronous focus groups with health professionals to explore appropriate and acceptable ways to provide sexual healthcare. (3) Three consecutive co-production workshops inclusive of men with the disease, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to formulate a prototype intervention. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: This study will create an evidence-based prototype intervention that will provide nurses with the knowledge and skills required to effectively assess the sexual health needs of men with inflammatory bowel disease and provide appropriate, patient-centred care. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION: The study design was supported by a patient group. The study delivery will be supported by a patient co-investigator and stakeholder group inclusive of men with lived experience of the disease. REPORTING METHOD: This report adheres to the SPIRIT 2013 checklist for standard protocol items for clinical trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION: clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT06562751.