Research update MS AND SEX mensguide.07.11.10K
How common is sexual dysfunction in MS? Sexual activity is an important part of life for many people and contributes to their quality of life, the quality of their relationships and to their self-esteem. We know that MS can affect aspects of sexual function in both men and women. These studies looked at how common these issues are.
a guide for
MEN
Multiple Sclerosis Trust Spirella Building, Bridge Road Letchworth Garden City Hertfordshire SG6 4ET T 01462 476700 E info@mstrust.org.uk www.mstrust.org.uk
Simon Webster
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Authors Lew-Starowicz M, Rola R Title Sexual dysfunctions and sexual quality of life in men with multiple sclerosis Journal Journal of Sexual Medicine 2014; 11 (5):1294-1301 >> Read the abstract: tinyurl.com/sex-ms-men Authors Lew-Starowicz M, Rola R Title Prevalence of sexual dysfunctions among women with multiple sclerosis Journal Sexuality and Disability 2013;31(2):141-153 >> Read the full study: tinyurl.com/sex-ms-women
The participants 137 women and 67 men with MS from Poland took part in these studies. The participants were interviewed, underwent neurological examination and completed gender-specific questionnaires, which explored aspects of their sexual activity.
The survey The results showed that more than three quarters (83 per cent) of the women surveyed were affected in at least one aspect of sexual function, such as decreased desire or sensation. In men, just over half (53 per cent) of the participants reported erectile dysfunction and just over a quarter (27 per cent) had decreased sexual desire. Although sexual dysfunction was common, only 4 of the male (6 per cent) and only 3 (2 per cent) of the female participants had ever discussed their sexual concerns with a doctor.
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The severity of sexual dysfunction had an impact on sexual quality of life, but the symptoms reported had no relation to age, time since MS onset or level of disability, suggesting there were many factors involved.
The suggestions The researchers found that sexual dysfunction was common in people with MS and, although it had a significant impact on their sexual quality of life, the majority had not discussed their concerns with a health professional. The authors suggest that health professionals should pay more attention to sexual concerns so that people with MS are offered appropriate support and advice.
Sex & MS
Managing sexual issues in MS Sexual difficulties can be experienced at any time during the course of MS. They may be the result of other MS symptoms, including bladder symptoms, pain, fatigue or spasticity. However not every sexual issue is due to MS and many of the difficulties described by people with MS (such as anxiety, or the side effects of medication) also occur in the general population. The MS Trust has two resources for people with MS and their partners. These look at how sexual issues can be managed, include suggestions on discussing sexual difficulties with partners and with health professionals, as well as a list of resources and organisations that may help. Sex and MS: a guide for men mstrust.org. uk/sex-ms Sexuality and MS: a guide for women mstrust.org.uk/ sexuality-ms
Open Door May 2014 Facebook: facebook.com/mstrustuk Twitter: @mstrust
Sexuality & MS
a guide for women
Nicki Ward-Abel Janice Sykes
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