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Multiple sclerosis and quality of sex life: The role of the gynecologist

This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, demyelinating and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) of unknown etiology. Its incidence is increasing, especially in young women, as well as the sexual dysfunctions related to the condition. Although the precise neurobiological interactions between multiple sclerosis, nerve damage and sexuality are not completely understood, the disease impact on sex life is well acquainted. The prevalence of Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) in multiple sclerosis patients varies from 40 to 80%, showing a higher incidence than in the general population (43%). It is probably due to multiple factors: biological, physiological, psychological, social ones. Sexual dysfunction is mainly represented by dyspareunia for reduced vaginal lubrication, difficulty in achieving orgasm, especially in women with cerebellar neurological damage. With the progression of the disease, other effects could also appear: biological genitals involution, loss of libido (manly related to depression), inappropriate sexual excitement, pelvic floor disorders, as well as drugs side effects, asthenia and pain. The importance of sexual dysfunction in MS requires a constant investigation of the issue in order to define a correct multidisciplinary approach that allows women to have a better quality of life.