As you probably already know, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition
characterized by breakdown of myelin and the development of plaques throughout
the brain and the spinal cord. Age-of-onset is typically between 20 and 40 years
of age, with women being more commonly affected than men. Symptoms often include
visual defects, cognitive deficits, numbness, weakness or lack of control over
limbs, and lack of coordination.
Unfortunately, changes in sexual function are very common for women with MS; they
typically occur early in the condition but tend to be milder than for men,
especially at first. Lowered sexual desire, as well as decreased or absent lubrication,
are almost as common as diminished orgasmic capacity, changes in orgasmic quality,
and inability to reach orgasm.
In one study of 72 females and 44 males -- aged 23-60 years of age, with MS --
their partners were questioned about their sexual and marital satisfaction,
specific sexual difficulties caused by MS, and ways of coping with sexual problems.
Results indicated that both male and female participants had sex lives that were
greatly affected by their disability. Problems included indirect physical changes,
direct sexual dysfunctions and concerns about future changes -- as well as
changed priorities, expectations and communications with a partner. Spouses also
indicated high levels of sexual dysfunction, including "non-sensuality."
Relationship difficulties were present in a third of the sample, with female
partners being the most dissatisfied. Interestingly, sexual dysfunction in patients
was not associated with age, duration of illness or mood state (Dupont, 1996).
It has been estimated that more than 50 percent of women and 75 percent of men
of men with MS experience some form of sexual dysfunction during the course of
their condition. Sexual areas affected include: temporary or long-term loss of
interest in sex, inability to achieve orgasm, difficulty engaging in intercourse
because of physical changes, or complete lack of erection. However, it can be
hard to know whether MS is the only cause (or the direct cause) of all these
difficulties. Fatigue, for example, may also discourage people from engaging in
sexual activity, with depression, cognitive changes and relationship side
effects also playing a major role. The drugs used to treat MS (e.g., antidepressants,
antispasmodics and anti-anxiety agents) can also have a negative influence.
Several coping methods have been suggested, including: Plan sex early in the
morning to avoid fatigue problems; use side or rear entry to avoid hip abductors
spasming in women with MS; and use vibrators when sensitivity is affected.
Of course, not all women notice such difficulties. You may well be one of the
lucky ones, so don't get upset just yet. If you would like more information, I
would recommend reading a chapter I wrote with Dr. Linda Mona on this topic in
"Psychological Perspectives on Human Sexuality." There is also an excellent
book by Michael Barrett, entitled "Sexuality and Multiple Sclerosis,"
that I highly recommend. I hope this overview was helpful and wish you much luck.
