Parkinson's disease is a nervous system disorder that affects movement. Psychological changes often occur as well. Many patients experience changes in their sex lives due to Parkinson's disease. This may happen at any time in the disease process from pre-diagnosis to severe stages. The patient's physician should be alerted to any sexual changes; treatment is available for most sexual issues.
Loss of Interest
Both male and female patients may complain of a loss of interest in sex or intimacy. This is often due to the psychological changes inherent to the disease process. Depression brought on by Parkinson's can cause a loss of interest in sex and other pleasurable pursuits. Parkinson's-related anxiety can so preoccupy the mind that sexual interest is squelched.
Feeling Undesirable
The urinary incontinence often associated with Parkinson's disease may make the patient feel sexually undesirable. Embarrassment over wearing protective undergarments may further hinder the urge to have a sexual encounter. Tremors and muscle rigidity can affect sexual performance, which may cause male patients to avoid initiating sex, especially with a new partner.
Erectile Dysfunction
Parkinson's disease can cause erectile problems, states Johns Hopkins Medicine. The ability to both have an erection and sustain it through intercourse can become impaired. According to an article published in the American Journal of Epidemiology titled "Erectile Function and Risk of Parkinson's Disease," men with erectile dysfunction are more likely to develop Parkinson's disease, making it possible that impotence problems merely precede other early symptoms in some cases.
Jealousy
Parkinson's disease can profoundly affect the emotional state. Both male and female sufferers of Parkinson's disease may become jealous regarding their sexual partner. Paranoia that the partner is straying or contemplating straying can place an undue strain on the sexual relationship. These delusions are often heightened by performance insecurities due to the physical changes encountered in Parkinson's.
Hypersexuality
According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, individuals taking medications for Parkinson's may experience sexual behavior changes. This may include having sex with multiple partners or increased sexual interest in the patient's own partner. Other sex-related impulse control issues may also alter the patient's primary relationship.
