Experience of women with multiple sclerosis about their sexuality

Abstract

Purpose To understand how women with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience their sexuality. Material and methods This was a qualitative study in which eight women belonging to MS associations in Elche or Alicante (Spain) completed semi-structured interviews. We subsequently carried out a thematic analysis of this data. Results Four main themes and multiple sub-themes were identified. The first theme was the ‘influence of stereotypes on sexual expression’, which included social and gender perspectives; the second theme was ‘physical and emotional causes of sexual dysfunction’, which were classified as primary, secondary, and tertiary; the third theme was ‘experiencing sexuality in a personalised way’, which included relationships with a partner, the concept of sexuality, and resources for improving sexual function; and the final theme was ‘external support’, which included sexual assistance, professional care, and peer support. Conclusions Sexual needs change in women with MS after diagnosis of the disease. However, this is not addressed routinely by health professionals. In their search for resources, women with MS highlighted that support from partners and from associations, could constitute a support network for the expression of their sexuality. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Women with MS refer changes in their sexual function, and these changes are not addressed routinely by healthcare providers. Inclusion of the sexual partners of women with MS in consultations regarding the treatment of sexual dysfunctions should be considered with previous consent. The positive experience of a woman with MS who used sexual assistant services may justify further research. MS associations can also play an important role in the sexual field as a meeting place for peers with shared experiences.