Men who suffer from multiple sclerosis often have difficulty maintaining a pleasurable sex life. The ability to perform sexually can have a devastating effect on a man’s self-confidence and his ability to maintain romantic relationships, among other things. Erectile dysfunction is a serious issue and a leading cause of depression, but with good communication skills, a positive outlook and a willingness to seek available treatment options, many couples are able to have very fulfilling and exciting sex lives.
Here are some tips for men dealing with the sexual symptoms of MS:
Communication – Men with MS are often withdrawn or embarrassed to discuss sexual dysfunction with their partner or spouse. This can inadvertently lead the MS sufferer’s partner to believe he has lost interest or is feeling angry and despondent. A reassuring discussion about the sexual symptoms of MS (preferably with a doctor or therapist) can help relieve your partner of negative emotions and lay a strong foundation for discovering new ways for both partners to be sexually satisfied within the relationship.
Experimentation – Just because you may not be able to have sex the way you used to does not mean there can’t be many new and fun things you can introduce into the bedroom. An attitude of experimentation can help you find new ways to be stimulated and stimulate your partner as well. Finding new erogenous zones unaffected by the symptoms of MS is also a great way to re-envision your sex life. If fatigue is a problem, many people with MS find that sex in the morning, when their energy levels are elevated, is much easier. And for those with spasms, massages can help ease muscles and also get you in the mood for sexual activity.
Healthy Habits – It is very important to get adequate exercise, either by yourself or with the help of a partner. Aerobic exercise can help to regain your flexibility and energy levels so you can perform in the bedroom. Another major benefit from exercise is a healthier heart which can help to create better blood flow to the penis. It is also important to maintain a well-balanced, high-fiber, low-fat diet. MS can affect bowl function which can lead to troubles during sex and high-fiber diet can help to maintain proper bowel function. Also, a high-fiber, low-fat diet can reduce cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major contributor to erectile dysfunction and patients with low cholesterol have improved blood flow to the penis.
Get Medical Treatments for ED – Most are familiar with oral medications that can help symptoms of ED but they may not be the best treatment for some men, especially those with other health conditions like MS. Intracavernous pharmacotherapy, where a small injection of vasodilators is introduced to the arteries of the penis, is a very effective way to achieve an erection within minutes. Also, vacuum suction devices, hormonal replacement therapy, intra-urethral suppositories and many other treatments can be very effective in treating ED.
If you are suffering from the sexual side effects of MS, there are many ways for you to fulfill your partner and yourself by exploring products, therapies and lifestyle changes that are available to you. Talk to a doctor about how they may be able to help you bring sex back to your relationship.
