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Journal of Neurology

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01-12-2018 | Original Communication

Identifying barriers to help-seeking for sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis

Authors: Katarina Ivana Tudor, S. Eames, C. Haslam, J. Chataway, M. D. Liechti, J. N. Panicker

Published in: Journal of Neurology | Issue 12/2018

Abstract

Background

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common in multiple sclerosis (MS), however, under-reported.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify barriers faced by patients with MS and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in discussing SD.

Methods

This was a two-part prospective study carried out at a tertiary care centre. Patients with MS were surveyed using a 29-item questionnaire and SD was assessed using the MSISQ and ASEX questionnaires; depression screened with PHQ-2. HCPs were surveyed using a 23-item questionnaire.

Results

Seventy four patients (mean age 42.4 ± 10.7, 54 females) and 98 HCPs (mean age 45.8 ± 8.9, 90 females) participated. SD was significant, with primary (36.4%), secondary (27%) and tertiary (29.8%) contributory factors. Commonest barriers reported by patients were dominance of neurological symptoms (N = 30, 40.5%), presence of family or friends (N = 28, 37.8%), and not being asked (N = 25, 33.8%), while HCPs reported presence of family or friends (N = 34, 34.7%), lack of knowledge about SD (N = 30, 30.6%), and inadequate time during the consultation (N = 27, 27.6%).

Conclusions

Barriers to discussing SD are similar between patients and HCPs. The most common barriers are addressable through modifications in the clinic environment, raising awareness and providing training opportunities.

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Title: Identifying barriers to help-seeking for sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Katarina Ivana Tudor
S. Eames
C. Haslam
J. Chataway
M. D. Liechti
J. N. Panicker
Publication date: 01-12-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: Journal of Neurology / Issue 12/2018
Print ISSN: 0340-5354
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1459
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-018-9064-8

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

Identifying barriers to help-seeking for sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

2024 ASCO Annual Meeting

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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