Parkinson’s Disease and Sexuality Are Connected. The condition may affect desire and intimacy, but with treatment, open dialogue, and proper support, it is possible to find strategies that favor closeness and well-being. Learn more.
Parkinson’s Disease is the death of brain cells located in the area responsible for producing dopamine, the neurotransmitter that controls movement.
The condition compromises motor function, affects emotional health, and impacts intimacy. Since incidence is higher in old age, we will address the perspective of Parkinson’s Disease and Sexuality in the elderly.
What Is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s Disease is the reduction of dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter involved in transmitting nerve signals throughout the body, enabling communication within the nervous system.
Dopamine is produced in an area of the brain called the “substantia nigra,” and it is involved in motor control, motivation, reward, and mood regulation.
The decrease in this neurotransmitter occurs when cells in the region where it is produced die.
Parkinson’s Disease is more common in men. One initial hypothesis is that men have less estrogen, and this hormone helps protect the nervous system, delaying onset or progression. Another possible explanation is higher exposure to pesticides and chemicals.
Here are the main symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease:
- Tremors, especially in the arms;
- Reduced arm movement;
- Joint stiffness;
- Slowed muscle reflexes;
- Difficulty performing movements requiring precision, such as writing;
- Short steps;
- Mental confusion;
- Reduced blinking;
- Muscle pain;
- Drooling because of poor saliva control;
- Changes in speech;
- Blurred vision;
- Sleep disorders;
- Urinary incontinence;
- Constipation;
- Anxiety and depression.
How Does Parkinson’s Disease Affect Sexuality?
Three aspects explain the impact of Parkinson’s Disease on intimacy. Learn more:
1. Effects of the Disease
Parkinson’s symptoms already pose challenges to sexuality. Motor difficulties and urinary incontinence, for example, cause discomfort and embarrassment. If the man has trouble sleeping, that further decreases willingness for intimate moments.
2. Emotional Problems
People with Parkinson’s often experience low self-esteem, since the disease affects movement, can impact speech, and may lead to difficulty controlling saliva, among other issues. These factors cause insecurity and feelings of inadequacy, interfering with all areas of life.
Anxiety about the changes caused by the disease is also common and can result in stress, depression, and anger, reducing interest in emotional and sexual connection.
3. Treatment Effects
Some medications prescribed for motor symptoms can impair sexuality.
These medications increase or mimic the effects of dopamine in the body. However, they may reduce dopamine in areas of the brain associated with pleasure and reward. Even if the individual feels physically able to have sex, the experience may bring little or no pleasure.
On the other hand, these drugs can also boost dopamine action and lead to hypersexuality, which is an excessive increase in sexual desire.
Sexual Dysfunction in Parkinson’s: What Are the Main Changes?
Sexual dysfunction is the difficulty in achieving or maintaining a sexual response. In Parkinson’s Disease, this may result from both the symptoms and the drugs used to treat motor issues. Discover the main ways Parkinson’s can affect sexual function:
1. Reduced Sexual Desire
Sexual desire may decline because of lower dopamine levels, a chemical produced in the brain that controls movement and is also involved in the reward system. Known as the “motivation molecule,” dopamine is released during pleasurable activities like sex. Since Parkinson’s stems from a drop in dopamine, libido can decrease.
Some medications used to manage motor symptoms can also contribute to lower sexual desire. The reason is that they reduce dopamine levels in the brain regions linked to pleasure and reward.
2. Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease may be caused by reduced dopamine, poor blood circulation, or side effects of medications used to control the disease.
3. Hypersexuality
Hypersexuality is an abnormal increase in sexual desire. It is a rare side effect of dopamine agonists, drugs that mimic the effects of this neurotransmitter in the brain.
4. Difficulty Achieving Orgasm
This difficulty can result from reduced dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to the brain’s reward system. The medications used in treatment may also have a sedative effect, influencing the ability to reach orgasm.
The Disease’s Impact on the Partner’s Sexuality
Parkinson’s Disease also affects the woman’s intimacy. Here’s how:
1. Changes in Relationship Dynamics
This occurs because the spouse’s role shifts to that of a caregiver. This new dynamic causes stress and fatigue, hindering emotional and sexual connection.
2. Insecurity About the Future
Parkinson’s Disease is challenging for the patient and also for the partner. She may feel uncertain about the future of the relationship and focus solely on this condition.
3. Communication Issues
This difficulty can be a symptom of the disease or may stem from embarrassment about discussing sexuality. One tip is to seek psychological support to address sexuality in Parkinson’s Disease.
4. Reduced Libido
The physical and emotional stress of caring for a husband with Parkinson’s can overwhelm women and drastically reduce libido. Consequently, they have less physical and mental energy for sexual intimacy.
The Importance of Communication in a Relationship Facing Sexual Dysfunction
Open communication is crucial, whether or not sexual dysfunction is linked to Parkinson’s Disease and Sexuality. Consider the following:
- Discussing fears and embarrassment surrounding sexual dysfunction helps strengthen the couple’s bond;
- Open communication can help both partners find the best path forward;
- When the couple shares feelings and expectations, misunderstandings are prevented.
Treatment Options for Sexual Dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease
Treatment for sexual issues in Parkinson’s patients is multidisciplinary. Check it out:
- Medications for erectile dysfunction;
- Hormone replacement if low testosterone levels are identified;
- Non-pharmacological approaches, such as relaxation techniques, healthy eating, and regular exercise;
- Psychological support for sexuality in Parkinson’s Disease.
Tips for Maintaining Intimacy and Quality of Life
Simple measures can help sustain your sexual life and contribute to overall well-being. Consider:
- Open and honest communication;
- Showing affection with hugs, compliments, and thoughtful notes;
- Taking care of physical and mental health through exercise, healthy eating, relaxation practices, and therapy.
When to See a Urologist
You should consult a urologist as soon as sexual dysfunction begins to affect your overall quality of life.
Parkinson’s Disease can affect sexuality in various ways. With medical guidance and psychological support, it is possible to find strategies that help maintain intimacy and the couple’s well-being.
If you would like to follow educational content on men’s sexual health, visit Dr. Paulo Egydio’s informational channels.
