Behavioral therapies outperform standard IBS treatments in easing symptoms like pain and bloating, a major review finds.

Behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy and gut-directed hypnotherapy are more effective than standard IBS treatments for reducing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel changes, according to a large review of 67 trials involving over 7,000 people. The findings, published in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology, suggest these therapies—delivered in person or digitally—could be used earlier in treatment. While promising, researchers note limitations, including the inability to blind participants, and call for more studies to compare delivery methods and identify which patients benefit most. IBS affects about 5% of people globally and has no cure, making effective symptom management essential.