Multiple sclerosis and sexual impotence: neurological damage, medication side effects, fatigue and emotional factors – get your questions answered.
Multiple sclerosis attacks the coating that protects nerve cells, disrupting communication between brain and body and affecting several functions, including erection. Learn more about the link between multiple sclerosis and sexual impotence.
Can multiple sclerosis cause sexual dysfunction in men?
Erectile dysfunction is common in MS because the disease damages the myelin sheath covering and protecting neurons in the central nervous system.
The myelin sheath lets nerve impulses travel at the right speed for movement, balance and sexual response. When it is damaged, signals slow down and the brain cannot send messages to the pelvic nerves after sexual arousal, so blood flow does not increase and the penis fails to become erect.
How does multiple sclerosis affect erectile function?
Three fronts explain the impact of MS on sex life.
- Neurological damage;
- Medications used in treatment;
- Emotional factors.
Neurological damage blocks or distorts the signals that trigger penile rigidity, leading to weak erections, involuntary erections or none at all.
Drugs used for MS, such as antispastics, can over-relax penile muscle and hinder erection maintenance.
Sexual function is also influenced by insecurity, anxiety, depression and frustration. Tremors, severe fatigue, brain fog or urinary symptoms may cause embarrassment.
Main causes of sexual impotence in men with multiple sclerosis
Impotence in MS can be primary, secondary, tertiary or quaternary:
- Neurological: myelin damage disrupts electrical signals that control erection;
- Physical: extreme fatigue, spasms and muscle weakness create performance anxiety;
- Emotional / psychosocial: anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, frustration, communication issues;
- Medication-related: antispastics and antidepressants.
Symptoms of erectile dysfunction in men with multiple sclerosis
Typical signs include:
- Difficulty starting an erection;
- Weak erections;
- Inability to maintain erection;
- Lack of morning erections.
Effective treatments for sexual impotence in men with multiple sclerosis
Therapies aim to improve sexual function and wellbeing, respecting individual limits:
- Oral drugs – if no cardiovascular contraindication and some nerve signalling remains;
- Penile injections – when oral medication is ineffective;
- Vacuum pumps to draw blood into the penis;
- Psychotherapy for anxiety, depression and insecurity;
- Pelvic-floor physiotherapy and sexual rehabilitation;
- Medication adjustment to ease side effects;
- Penile prosthesis (last-line option) for severe, refractory ED.
How can multiple sclerosis affect male sexual quality of life?
MS influences sexuality biologically, functionally, psychologically and relationally:
- Erectile dysfunction;
- Loss of pelvic sensation;
- Premature, delayed or absent ejaculation;
- Extreme fatigue;
- Muscle weakness;
- Low libido;
- Low self-esteem, anxiety, fear of rejection, frustration.
When to seek medical help for MS-related sexual dysfunction?
Consult a urologist if you experience:
- Persistent erection problems;
- Ejaculation issues;
- Loss of sensation or sexual pleasure;
- Reduced libido.
Multiple sclerosis brings sexual challenges. With urological and psychological guidance, strategies may help maintain intimacy and wellbeing. Start with a pre-assessment and take the first step.
Learn more:
- Sexual Health: Egydio Medical Center EMC
- How Not to Fail at the Right Moment? Tips to Avoid Impotence
- When Is a Penile Prosthesis Necessary in Curvature Surgery?
- What Causes Hormonal Disorders in Men? Find Out!
- Penile Prosthesis: Detailed Advantages and Disadvantages
- Penile Prosthesis Rejection: Risks and Cases
- Does prostate removal affect ejaculation? What changes in sexual life
- Penile Prosthesis Maintenance: Do I Need Frequent Replacements?