Couples, Sexual Intimacy, and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, disabling, neurological disease that usually strikes in the third and fourth decades of life. These years correspond to stages in individual and family life cycles when adults develop and maintain sexually intimate relationships. Thus the intrusion of MS into the life of a committed couple can have implications for sexual functioning, intimacy, and the continuation of their marital relationship. This article provides an overview of the diverse changes that multiple sclerosis can engender, particularly in sexual, cognitive, and affective functioning. It highlights two case studies of couples in whom the female partners have MS, and describes the clinical interventions and outcomes for each. Also, divorce and extramarital relationships among couples living with MS are discussed.