An autoimmune disorder, multiple sclerosis results from damage to the myelin sheath, which covers the neurons. The symptoms of multiple sclerosis start between the ages of 20 and 40, with the rate of occurrence higher in women, according to MedlinePlus. Multiple sclerosis affects the brain and spinal cord, though it can also affect other areas of the body. Some patients may experience sexual problems.
Lubrication Problems
MedlinePlus notes that female multiple sclerosis patients can have problems with vaginal lubrication. Women with this symptom feel dryness in their vaginas. Women may have an uncomfortable experience during sexual intercourse because of the decreased lubrication. To overcome the decreased lubrication, patients may need to use synthetic lubrication.
Decreased Sensation
Some female multiple sclerosis patients may have decreased pleasure during sex. The Merck Manual Home Edition explains that patients may have a lack of sensation in their vaginas. For example, during sexual intercourse, patients may not feel as aroused. As a result of the decreased sensation, patients may need extra stimulation to reach orgasm.
Problems Reaching Orgasm
Both men and women with multiple sclerosis may have problems reaching orgasm, according to the Merck Manual Home Edition. With female patients, the problems with reaching orgasm may occur along with the decreased sensation. It may take women longer to reach an orgasm. Male patients may have delayed orgasm.
Erection Problems
Men with multiple sclerosis may have difficulty getting erect, points out the Merck Manual Home Edition. Men may have problems getting or maintaining erections. With the latter problem, a patient could have an erection at the start of sexual intercourse but lose it during the act. MedlinePlus explains that difficulty keeping or having an erection is considered a problem when it occurs more than 25 percent of the time.
