Sexual relations are a sensitive — and difficult — topic for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), just as they are for people in general.
Sexual dysfunction in people with MS can be caused by a combination of physical, psychological, emotional, and social factors, which can make mutually satisfying sexual relations between adults somewhat challenging.
In MS, damage to nerve impulses can affect arousal and orgasm. Arousal begins in the central nervous system, with messages to sexual organs originating in the brain and running through the spinal cord. Because nerve pathways in MS can be damaged to the point where they disrupt the flow of these messages, problems with arousal and orgasm are common.
Surveys suggest that more than 90% of men and 70% of women with MS are aware of, and affected by, such problems during sex.
Sexual Problems in Women
Women with MS may experience reduced or painful sensation in the vaginal/clitoral area, or vaginal dryness. Although no specific medications are available for these symptoms, vaginal dryness can be relieved with liberal use of water-soluble lubricants; however, petroleum jelly is not recommended, as it is not water-soluble and can cause infections.
Problems with orgasm may be overcome by stimulating sensitivity — spending more time on foreplay and using a vibrator to overcome slow arousal and impaired sensation.
In general, MS does not affect a woman’s fertility.
Sexual Problems in Men
Men with MS may experience problems in achieving or maintaining an erection. About 70% of men with MS experience erectile difficulties within years of the first appearance of symptoms.
Depending on the extent and location of nerve damage, other problems can include a reduced sensation in the penis and difficulty ejaculating. No treatment exists for difficulties with ejaculation or orgasm, as these processes are much more complex than erection, and require healthy and intact connections between the spinal cord and brain. Treatments are available for erectile dysfunction.
For men, MS does not directly affect fertility, but men who find it difficult to ejaculate might not be able to easily father a baby. Fertility clinics may be of help.
Intimacy
All relationships require energy and effort to go through up and downs — even without a disease to complicate matters. It is almost inevitable that MS will add to the challenge.
Recognizing that MS affects both partners in a relationship is the first step to coping with MS in personal interactions. Many times, learning to live with the disease brings couples closer together. It is important to never compare relationships with your own, under any circumstances.
People with MS should keep in mind that their partner also is experiencing the disease. It’s normal for an MS patient’s partner to care and worry, but couples should try their best to keep the relationship healthy and balanced. To achieve this, it’s important for both to give and receive in the relationship to preserve communication and intimacy.
Intimacy with your partner is a way of connecting — both verbally and nonverbally. MS can affect your sex life, but intimacy doesn’t always have to be sexual. You may have to discover new ways of being intimate with your loved one.
“To read this article in its entirety click this link: Sex, Intimacy, and Multiple Sclerosis.”