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

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and affects their quality of life. 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. 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. 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]). Women with MS have high expectations on treatment and information about SD. A systematic screening of SD expectations should be encouraged.