Sex and Intimacy

MS Sex and Intimacy

Sex and intimacy are valuable aspects of personal well-being, relationships, and quality of life. Living with MS can create both physical and emotional challenges for sexual relationships—whether you are in a partnership or seeking new intimacy. The good news: with open communication, self-awareness, and tailored adjustments, you can enjoy a fulfilling sex life regardless of MS.

What is sexual dysfunction in MS?

Sexual dysfunction in MS refers to difficulties experienced around desire, arousal, orgasm, and physical intimacy. Problems may include:

  • Reduced interest or desire for sex (libido)
  • Difficulty with arousal, sensation, lubrication (women) or erection/ejaculation (men)
  • Physical symptoms interfering with intimacy, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, spasticity, pain, or bladder/bowel issues
  • Emotional challenges, like embarrassment, self-image concerns, mood changes, or altered confidence
  • Side effects from medications or secondary effects of living with MS
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Sexual challenges may arise or change over time, and can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, or relationship status.

There are several direct and indirect causes:

  • Neurological changes from MS may disrupt nerve signals between the brain and sexual organs, leading to physical problems with arousal or orgasm.
  • Emotional impacts: adjusting to an MS diagnosis, changes in roles, or worries about your future can lead to stress, low mood, or reduced desire.
  • Body image: feelings of embarrassment about MS symptoms, appearance, or bodily changes can reduce sexual confidence.
  • Secondary symptoms: fatigue, pain, spasticity, bladder/bowel issues, and medication side effects can all directly or indirectly reduce enjoyment or confidence with intimacy.

Sexual desire and activity naturally fluctuate across a lifetime, and can be influenced by non-MS factors like menopause, parenting, relationship dynamics, and stress.

It’s normal to feel awkward raising the topic, but these issues are common and treatable!

  • Talk openly with your partner, or take time to clarify your feelings in writing first.
  • Communicate with your GP, MS nurse, or neurologist – they are used to discussing sensitive issues and can suggest treatments or referrals.
  • Raise the issue as part of your wider symptom review. “MS can affect my sex life – can we talk about it?”
  • Keep a brief diary of challenges, noting timing, symptoms, and associated feelings, to help your care team find solutions.
  • Consider advice from community support advisers or relationship counsellors.


If you’re single or dating, it’s your choice when to discuss MS with new partners – there’s no right answer. Let it come naturally as you build trust and intimacy.

Practical tips:

  • Experiment with different positions that require less muscle strength or relieve pressure on the bladder (e.g., lying on your back with pillows, side positions, or on top for more control).
  • Use aids like slings, sex furniture, or pillows for comfort or support.
  • Physiotherapists can design safe exercise plans and teach energy-conserving techniques.
  • If you use a catheter or have bladder/bowel symptoms, time medication or choose positions that relieve pressure—check with your health team first.
  • Try body mapping—gently explore which types of touch give pleasure, discomfort, or numbness, alone or with a partner.
  • Use sex toys and aids—there is a wide range available, including easy-grip options and hands-free designs for accessibility.
  • Masturbation can help relearn what works for you and boost confidence.
  • Look after your health—exercise, eating well, relaxing, and maintaining personal care all support feeling attractive and confident.
Communication:

  • Share your feelings using “I” statements rather than criticism (e.g., “I feel…” or “I would like…”).
  • Set aside time for intimacy and for non-sexual physical closeness (hugs, massages, holding hands).
  • Learn about sex and disability—dispelling myths and knowing your options empowers you and your partner.
For emotional challenges:

  • If you or your partner experience low mood, grief, anger, or loss of interest in sex, talking openly (together or with a therapist) can help restore closeness.
  • Recognise that emotional withdrawal or lack of concentration during intimacy may relate to MS.
  • Self-care and activities that boost confidence are important (haircuts, clothes, or relaxation)
Practical tips:  

  • Women: A full assessment of history, exam, and sometimes pelvic examination may be needed. Issues with arousal or lubrication may be managed with over-the-counter lubricants, prescription medications, or adjustments in timing/positioning.
  • Men: Issues with arousal, erection, or ejaculation are often manageable with medications or simple changes. Hormone levels, diabetes, and medication effects may be assessed and addressed.
  • Medication changes: Some antidepressants and other drugs impact sexual function—discuss alternatives with your provider if you suspect a link.
  • Specialist referral: If initial treatments are not effective, a sexual health expert or relationship counsellor may be able to help both partners.
  • It’s important for both partners to be involved in treatment planning, since relationships are affected by both people’s experience.

If you are struggling to talk to your healthcare team, you can always ask to see someone else. There is no ‘wrong’ person to talk to—MS nurses, community advisers, GPs, neurologists, or sexual health experts can all help.

General Information

MS can impact sex and intimacy, but you do not have to go through it alone. Open conversations, support from your partner, and tips from community advisors can make a big difference.

Bladder, Bowel and Sexual Initmacy