Multiple Sclerosis and Female Sexual Dysfunction: Impact of Disease Severity and Duration

Abstract

Despite a lot of studies of sexual dysfunction there are still no consistent data about the prevalence and characteristics of sexual dysfunction among women with MS, especially it terms of multiple sclerosis severity and duration. The objective: was to determine the prevalence of various SD symptoms among female MS patients, depending on the age and severity of the disease, and evaluate SD impact on quality of life. Materials and methods. The study population includes 116 female patients with MS (McDonald’s criteria, 2010). Health – related quality of life was measured by the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQOL-54). Sexual dysfunction was assessed with the Sexual Function Index for Women with Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire. Results. A direct average correlation between satisfaction with sexual life and relationships; sexual activity and arousal; discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse; direct impact of multiple sclerosis on sexual life and total quality of life, physical health component, mental health component was established (р<0.05). The prevalence of sexual dysfunction increases with the age and disease duration. Conclusions. Our data confirm that SD is common symptom in women with MS and significantly affect their quality of life. Key words: multiple sclerosis, female sexual dysfunction.