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Open Access 28-02-2024 | Multiple Sclerosis | Review

Male sexual and reproductive health in multiple sclerosis: a scoping review

Authors: Karlo Toljan, Farren B. S. Briggs

Published in: Journal of Neurology | Issue 5/2024

Abstract

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neuroinflammatory disease with highest incidence during the period of optimal reproductive health. This scoping review aimed to identify and summarize available data on sexual/reproductive health in males with MS (MwMS).

Methods

This review was based on PRISMA extension for Scoping Review. PubMed database was searched for keyword “multiple sclerosis” alongside keywords “sexual health”, “reproductive health”, “family planning”, “male fertility”, “male infertility”, “sexual dysfunction”, and “erectile dysfunction”, iteratively using the “AND” logical operator. Descriptive analysis was performed on the included articles.

Results

Thirty-four studies were included, and four topics emerged: sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction, fertility, and family planning. Sexual dysfunction is common in MwMS (35–72%), yet only a minority of MwMS discuss their sexual health with their treatment teams. Both MS disability and depression were associated with sexual dysfunction in MwMS, with erectile dysfunction and decreased libido as the most prevalent aspects of sexual dysfunction. Positively, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors appear effective for treating erectile dysfunction and improving sexual quality of life in MwMS. There may also be a relationship between MS and male infertility, though changes in sexual behavior may underlie this association. Finally, a prominent knowledge gap was observed for disease-modifying therapy use and family planning in MwMS.

Conclusion

Sexual dysfunction is common, impacted by MS severity, and associates with decreased quality of life in MwMS. Communication barriers regarding sexual and reproductive health appear to exist between MwMS and providers, as do literature gaps related to MS therapeutics and sexual/reproductive health.

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Title: Male sexual and reproductive health in multiple sclerosis: a scoping review
Authors: Karlo Toljan
Farren B. S. Briggs
Publication date: 28-02-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Multiple Sclerosis
Andrology
Erectile Dysfunction
Infertility
Published in: Journal of Neurology / Issue 5/2024
Print ISSN: 0340-5354
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1459
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-024-12250-2

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Male sexual and reproductive health in multiple sclerosis: a scoping review

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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