Sexual health is an important part of quality of life for many people. Multiple sclerosis can cause new challenges and disrupt sexual relationships. Positioning options, including pillows and slings, are reviewed that can help overcome weakness and stiffness of legs. Factors that can reduce a woman's libido, or sexual drive, are addressed such as medications and hormone levels. Ways to achieve a satisfying sexual relationship with disability from multiple sclerosis are discussed in terms of intimacy and foreplay. Detailed solutions are presented such as stimulation and lubrication to overcome decreased or painful sensations with intercourse.
Up to 40% of men with multiple sclerosis can have low testosterone which can decrease libido. An array of testosterone replacement options highlighted depending on whether a man still wants to father children or not. Erectile dysfunction treatments discussed in depth including oral pills, intra-urethral suppositories, self-injection therapies, vacuum erection devices and penile implants.
Barry Singer MD, Director of The MS Center for Innovations in Care, interviews:
Heather Raznick MSW, LCSW is a psychotherapist in clinical practice in St. Louis. She obtained a Masters in Social Work from Washington University. She trained at the world-renowned Masters and Johnson Institute, where she studied clinical sex therapy under the direct supervision of legendary sexologist Dr. William Masters. She provides academic and clinical training to residents and medical students as well as lectures at several area hospitals. She is a member and has received certifications in multiple organizations including American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors and Therapists and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health.
Etai Goldenberg MD is the Director of Men’s Health at Urology of St. Louis. Dr. Goldenberg completed his undergraduate degree at University of Michigan and medical school at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. His urological surgery residency was obtained at Washington University in St. Louis. In addition, he completed a fellowship in male reproduction and sexual health at the Smith Institute for Urology in New York City. He specializes in male sexual health, male reproduction, microsurgery, prosthetic urology and testosterone replacement.
Visit MSLivingWell.org for more information.
Share your MS story on ICanWithMS.org