Sexual function and ways of coping in patients with multiple sclerosis and their partners

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

The sexual and marital life of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and their partners is frequently affected by the disease. One hundred and sixteen MS sufferers (72 females, 44 males) and their partners were questioned about their sexual and marital satisfaction; specific sexual difficulties caused by MS; and ways of coping with sexual problems. Demographic data, impact and acceptance of MS, cognitive functioning and mood state were also measured. Results showed that both male and female patients had sex lives that were greatly affected by their disability. Problems included indirect physical changes (numbness, spasms and fatigue); direct sexual dysfunctions (impotence, vaginismus and anorgasmia); concerns about future changes (incontinence, fertility); and sexuality-related changes (priorities, expectations and communication with partner). Men had higher levels of sexual dysfunction and talked to their doctors more frequently compared with women. Three percent of women and 25% of men had been to a sexual therapist. Spouses also indicated high levels of sexual dysfunction, including the area of non-sensuality. Relationship difficulties were present in a third of the sample, with female partners being the most dissatisfied. Sexual dysfunction in patients was not associated with age, duration of illness or mood state. Partners' sexual dysfunction was associated with patients' age, duration of MS and illness impact.