Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sexual problems are prevalently experienced by women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and have been investigated in several studies. The nature of sexual changes in MS is best defined as primary, secondary, and tertiary. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate three levels of sexual problems (SP) in female patients with MS and to examine their relationship with various clinical and demographic variables. METHODS: A total of 132 women with MS completed two questionnaires; demographic and clinical history, and Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19). Fatigue was evaluated by Fatigue (energy) sub-scale of Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQOL-54) questionnaire. General physical ability and frequency of sexual intercourse were also evaluated. RESULTS: One hundred and fifteen patients (87.1%) reported primary SP. The most frequent symptoms of primary, secondary and tertiary sexual problems were delayed orgasm, spasticity and concern about partner's sexual satisfaction, respectively. The MSISQ-19 total score was correlated with age(p=0.002), disease duration(p=0.010), marriage duration(p=0.001), fatigue(p<0.001), number of children(p=0.006), physical ability(p<0.001), education(p=0.006), economic status(p=0.002), number of times having sexual intercourse(p=0.007) and number of times approached by spouse for intercourse(p=0.012) in the last 30 days. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual problems were prevalent among our participants. Appropriate management of SP depends on understanding the disturbed level.