Reproductive issues in inflammatory bowel disease.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is predominantly a disease of young people with a peak incidence between ages 20 and 40 years. Indeed, for an adolescent or young adult this diagnosis can be devastating. Patients suddenly face a chronic incurable illness that may require lifelong treatment. Medication toxicity, the ability to lead a productive life, and life expectancy are common concerns for patients. In addition, given the age of affected individuals, reproductive issues are important concerns. Patients may worry about their ability to conceive, the effect of their disease on pregnancy and the effect of pregnancy on their disease. They may also worry about the likelihood of passing IBD onto their children. “Am I going to be able to have a family? Will I find an understanding life partner? Will my children be healthy?” Patients with IBD frequently ask these questions of their physicians. It is therefore important that physicians understand the reproductive issues associated with IBD and manage them appropriately.