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Multiple sclerosis Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, May 2009.

Answers to questions about multiple sclerosis

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

Will it shorten my life?

This is difficult to estimate as there are other conditions and factors which can lower or increase how long anyone will live. MS may have an impact on life expectancy. It may lower life span by six to 10 years, but this is just an average, and you can still live as long as the people the same age as you.

Explanation

MS may slightly lower your lifespan but not drastically. This does depend on the type of MS you have and many other factors. This could be by about six to 10 years, but this is an average and it's difficult to estimate as each person has different symptoms. Improvements in treatment and care will begin to impact on how long you are expected to live.

You need to try keep as active as possible as reduced mobility does affect your breathing, your heart and circulation, which can cause problems. Chest or bladder infections are also complications of MS and can shorten life span. Ask your doctor or MS nurse for advice, particularly if you have recurring infections or are worried.

Further information

Sources

  • Life expectancy. Multiple Sclerosis Trust. www.mstrust.org.uk, accessed 12 September 2008
  • MS and life expectancy. Multiple Sclerosis Society. www.mssociety.org.uk, accessed 12 September 2008
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Can I still have children?

Yes. You may however need to change your medication and some people may need to visit a fertility clinic.

Explanation

There is no reason why a woman or man with MS can't still have a child. In fact, for a woman it reduces your chances of relapses.

Women may need to change their medication as some medicines affect the menstrual cycle. You may need to wait for about three months before you try to conceive (get pregnant) after stopping your current medication and starting your new course. These medications include beta interferon 1b (eg Betaferon, Avonex and Rebif) or glatiramer acetate (eg Copaxone). Steroid medicines such as prednisolone also shouldn't be taken in early pregnancy. You should discuss changes to your medicines with a doctor before you do this, as stopping your medication suddenly can be harmful.

Between 35 and 50 of every 100 men with MS may have problems ejaculating. You and your partner can be referred to a fertility clinic to help you conceive. Some medicines can affect sperm counts or ejaculation. Speak to your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy with your partner as a different type of medication may be recommended so you can try conceiving naturally.

If you are concerned, visit your doctor for advice.

Further information

Sources

  • MS and having a baby. Multiple Sclerosis Society. www.mssociety.org.uk, accessed 16 September 2008
  • Sexual function in men. Multiple Sclerosis Society. www.mssociety.org.uk, accessed 19 September 2008
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Will MS affect my sex life?

It can do.

Explanation

Women with MS may find their desire for sex lessens or is gone entirely. Women may also find the sensation and regularity of orgasm differs and penetration may even be uncomfortable. The vagina may become drier and vaginal muscle tone can decrease.

Men with MS may not desire sex or find their desire has decreased. They may also have less sensation in the penis, fewer and less intense orgasms, and have ejaculation or erection problems.

These difficulties may be caused by tiredness, spasticity (muscle changes due to the effects of MS on the body), nerve damage or the medicines you are taking.

Moreover, the stress or anxiety, which you may feel after being diagnosed with MS, can affect your relationship with others and your self-esteem. And, in turn, this can affect your sex life.

Counselling can help so you can talk through any worries that you have. If the sensations you experience have changed, getting used to your body and what feels good may help. Water-soluble lubricants (eg KY jelly) can help reduce dryness. Men can try medicines such as sildenafil (eg Viagra), vacuum devices or prostaglandins, which can be injected into the penis, for erection difficulties. You may also decide to change your medication which can have an effect on sexual function.

Bladder or bowel incontinence can also affect sex as the nerves which affect the bladder and bowel are next to those which are active for sex and some people with MS may find this is affected. If you have these symptoms talking them through with your partner about different sexual positions, the potential to use condoms to prevent leakage and a towel may help. You may just need to empty your bladder before sex to avoid any accidents.

If you are concerned that multiple sclerosis is affecting your sex life visit to your GP.

Further information

Sources

  • Sex, intimacy and relationships. Multiple Sclerosis Society. www.mssociety.org.uk, accessed 16 September 2008
  • Sexual issues. Multiple Sclerosis Trust. www.mstrust.org.uk, accessed 16 September 2008
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: May 2009

 

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