Sexual dysfunctions in MS in relation to neuropsychiatric aspects and its psychological treatment: A scoping review

Abstract

ObjectiveSexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a significant, but often underestimated and overlooked suffering. Interventions to treat sexual dysfunction in MS are rare. The relation between sexual dysfunction in MS and psychological as well as neuropsychological aspects is evident. However, this field of research remains markedly underdeveloped in this severe chronic illness. The aim of this scoping review is to describe the relevant knowledge in this area and to identify psychological interventions to treat sexual dysfunctions in MS.MethodsA scoping review was conducted to answer the following questions: (1) Which psychological and neuropsychological factors impact on sexual dysfunction in MS and vice versa? (2) What kind of psychological interventions aiming to improve sexual dysfunctions in MS are available? A comprehensive search and review of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL was completed by using a recent methodological framework for scoping reviews.Results23 publications covering a total of 13,259 people with MS and 532 healthy controls were identified. Sexual dysfunction was found to be very common in MS and there is an obvious relation to psychological disorders as e.g. depression and anxiety and also to psychological aspects as partner relationship and quality of life. The relation between sexual dysfunction in MS and neuropsychological impairment has only rarely been studied and no clear results were found. Only two studies were identified, assessing the effectiveness of psychological intervention studies on sexual dysfunction in people with MS, and a third study presenting a secondary analysis of a study targeting depression. All three studies reported significant improvements in sexual dysfunction as well as partly in psychological variables.ConclusionsThere is a pressing need for the development and adequate evaluation of psychological interventions for sexual dysfunctions in MS. In addition, sexual dysfunction and its impact on psychological wellbeing should be more focussed in clinical care.RegistrationThis review is registered with PROSPERO; Registration number: CRD42016033066.

Systematic review of the prevalence, symptomatology and management options of sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis

“…SD may however occur secondary to different neurological disabilities such as spasticity, poor mobility, pain, fatigue, inattention/poor concentration, bladder/bowel incontinence, or at a tertiary level from the sociocultural, emotional, and psychological consequences of MS. Sexual dysfunction is related to mood disorders, diminished self‐esteem, impaired body image, and also to psychological aspects of the relationship with the partner …”

Factors associated with intimacy and sexuality among young women with multiple sclerosis

“…A recent review of the literature concluded that there is an urgent need for the development and adequate evaluation of psychological interventions for sexual dysfunctions in MS. The authors suggest that sexual dysfunction and its impact on psychological health should be more focused in practice [ 11 ].…”

The effect of pelvic floor muscle exercises on sexual function in women with multiple sclerosis: a pre – post intervention clinical trial

“…This autoimmune disease is characterized by a variety of unpredictable signs and symptoms, such as muscle cramps, fatigue, pain, visual disturbances, dysphagia, speech and breathing disorders, bladder and intestinal problems, cognitive disorders, and sexual problems [6][7][8][9].…”

“…Sexual dysfunction (SD) is an important public health concern and a common symptom in MS patients, with a prevalence of 40% to 80% [9,10]. Previous studies have suggested the incidence rate of SD to be 31% among Iranian females, but the prevalence of SD in Iranian women with MS is unknown [11].…”