Expectations about the management of sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis and association with clinical characteristics

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and affects their quality of life.

Objectives: The primary aim is to assess their expectations concerning SD management. The secondary aim is to identify if expectations were associated with specific patient's characteristics.

Methods: All women with MS who underwent a urodynamic assessment in a neuro-urology clinic and had a standardized assessment of SD expectations between June 2020 and November 2022 were retrospectively screened. Demographic data and assessment of bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunctions with validated questionnaires were collected.

Results: One hundred and sixty-seven patients were included in the study (mean age 47.9 ± 12.5 years). Expectations on SD information or management were reported by 112 (67.1%) patients. Interest in SD information and management was less frequent after menopause (56% vs 80%, p = 0.004), and in those with EDSS>6 (49% vs 74%, p = 0.03) and progressive type of MS (54% vs 71% p = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, the progressive type of MS was the only criterion related to a lack of interest (OR=2.9 IC95% [1.09; 7.72]).

Conclusions: Women with MS have high expectations on treatment and information about SD. A systematic screening of SD expectations should be encouraged.

Keywords: Female; Motivation; Multiple sclerosis; Physiological sexual dysfunction; Quality of life; Questionnaire.