Coping with spasticity

Spasticity in the legs can make finding a comfortable position for intercourse difficult, or cause pain that interferes with enjoyment.

Coping with fatigue

Fatigue is typically managed from physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pharmacological perspectives.

Coping with bladder dysfunction

Tailoring symptomatic bladder management strategies around anticipated sexual activity is the basic approach.

Coping with weakness

Weakness can be compensated for by finding new positions for satisfactory sexual activities.

Coping with changes in attention and concentration

Changes in attention and concentration may derail the ability to sustain sexual interest, which can create feelings of confusion, guilt, and rejection.

Coping with changes in mood

MS is frequently associated with grief, demoralization, temporary changes in self-esteem and body image, and clinical depression.

Coping with role changes and loss of intimacy

Western cultural expectations about sex include the notion that sex should be spontaneous and passionate.

Use proactive communication with health care providers

Health care providers rarely bring up the subject of sexuality, because of personal discomfort, lack of professional training in this area, or fears of being overly intrusive.