Assessment of sexual dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis: a perspective from neurologist

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common comorbidity in people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). It affects the quality of life and remains an overlooked condition. We will describe how Colombian neurologists assess and treat SD in pwMS.Methods: In this observational cross-sectional study we developed a questionnaire for neurologists with 4 sections ( demographic data, evaluation and treatment of SD, and possible reasons for not discussing sexual dysfunction.) It was sent via email to 326 Colombian neurologists. We grouped the answers according to the type of consultation (neurologists from a MS program or no MS program). We described through absolute frequencies and proportions. Results: 50 neurologists answered the survey, 5 have never attend pwMS; the section 2-4 was not answered by them. 29% work in a MS program, all of them asked their patients about sexual function, but 18.75% of physicians working outside an MS program have never asked about it. Reasons for not talking about sexual dysfunction were lack of knowledge (65.1%), presence of a companion (65.1%) and lack of time (55.8%). 91% of the neurologists reported that their patients usually and frequently ask about sexual function. Neurologists use informal questions to assess sexual function (80%), although 64.4% said that they are aware of SD questionnaires. When sexual dysfunction is detected, 91% of neurologists refer patients to another specialist and 87% do not start any treatmentConclusions: Colombian neurologists are concerned about sexual function. There is still a gap in the treatment and evaluation of sexual dysfunction.