Correlates of Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is an often overlooked disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between SD and other disabilities in men and women with MS. The sample included 32 men and 219 women. The men ranged in age from 32 to 65 years with a mean of 47.6 years. The women ranged in age from 22 to 77 years with a mean of 45.4 years. Data were collected using Guy's Neurological Disability Scale and a demographic questionnaire. In men, a significant positive relationship was found between SD and lower-limb and bladder disability. No relationship was found between SD and other MS disabilities. The most common problems for men involved erection and ejaculation. For women, a significant positive relationship was found between SD and all other MS disabilities. The strongest correlation was between SD and fatigue. The most common problems for women involved vaginal lubrication and orgasm. No relationship was found between SD and number of years with MS or age in either men or women. An open dialogue about SD may improve quality of life for people with MS. Interventions may include symptomatic treatment, referral of the couple for sexual counseling, and other approaches that may include sensory body mapping to enhance communication and pleasure for the couple living with MS.