#156: Reclaiming Intimacy with MS: Practical Help for Sexual Dysfunction (Expert Interview with Dr. Markus Heibel)

Sexuality is still a taboo topic for many people with multiple sclerosis (MS), even though sexual dysfunction is a common symptom of the disease. In this episode, I speak with neurologist Dr. Markus Heibel, medical director of a specialized MS clinic in Germany, about why sexual problems occur in MS—and what can help.

We discuss the difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual dysfunction, how symptoms like spasticity, pain, medication side effects, or psychological stress can affect intimacy, and which treatment options exist. Dr. Heibel also shares practical strategies from clinical practice—from physiotherapy and psychotherapy to communication within relationships and creative solutions that couples have found helpful.

The conversation shows that fulfilling intimacy is still possible with MS—and that talking openly about the topic is often the first and most important step.

👉 Read the full interview and resources on the blog:
https://ms-perspektive.com/156-dr-heibel

Topics in this episode

• Why sexual dysfunction in MS is still a taboo topic

• Primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual dysfunction explained

• The role of medication, hormones, physiotherapy, and psychotherapy

• Practical strategies for couples living with MS

• Why communication and openness are key

• What people with MS can do themselves to improve intimacy

Further resources on sexuality and multiple sclerosis

Sexual health is an important part of overall wellbeing, but many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) still find it difficult to talk about intimacy, desire, and sexual dysfunction. Fortunately, several international MS organizations provide reliable information, practical advice, and educational materials about sexuality, relationships, and intimacy with MS.

The following resources are good starting points if you would like to learn more or look for further support.

Global resources

• MS International Federation (MSIF) – Relationships and intimacy
  Overview article on intimacy, relationships, and communication when living with MS.
  https://www.msif.org/living-with-ms/relationships-and-intimacy/

• MS International Federation (MSIF) – Sexual problems
  Explains the different types of sexual dysfunction in MS (primary, secondary, tertiary) and common symptoms.
  https://www.msif.org/about-ms/symptoms-of-ms/sexual-problems/

• MS International Federation (MSIF) – Sexuality and MS (resource guide)
  Educational resource covering topics such as body image, desire, intimacy, and coping strategies.
  https://www.msif.org/resource/sexuality-ms/

• MS International Federation (MSIF) – Intimacy and Sexuality in MS (MS in Focus issue)
  A thematic publication with expert articles and patient perspectives on sexuality and MS.
  https://www.msif.org/resource/intimacy-and-sexuality-ms/

United States

• National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Sexual problems in MS
  Overview of sexual dysfunction in MS, including causes, treatment options, and communication tips for couples.
  https://www.nationalmssociety.org/understanding-ms/what-is-ms/ms-symptoms/sexual-problems

• National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Intimacy and MS
  Guidance on maintaining intimacy, emotional closeness, and communication in relationships affected by MS.
  https://www.nationalmssociety.org/managing-ms/living-with-ms/relationships/intimacy

• Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) – Sexual dysfunction
  Practical information about sexual symptoms, contributing factors, and possible treatment approaches.
  https://mymsaa.org/ms-information/symptoms/sexual-dysfunction/

United Kingdom

• MS Society (UK) – Sex and relationships
  Comprehensive information on intimacy, sexual health, and relationship challenges for people living with MS.
  https://www.mssociety.org.uk/living-with-ms/physical-and-mental-health/sex-and-relationships

• MS Society (UK) – Sex and relationship problems
  Focused guidance on common sexual difficulties and possible ways to address them.
  https://www.mssociety.org.uk/living-with-ms/physical-and-mental-health/sex-and-relationships/sex-and-relationship-problems

Canada

• MS Canada – Intimacy
  Resource page about emotional closeness, communication, and relationship changes when living with MS.
  https://mscanada.ca/intimacy

• MS Canada – Intimacy and sexuality
  Information about sexual function, body image, and maintaining a satisfying intimate life with MS.
  https://mscanada.ca/intimacy-and-sexuality

Thank you to Dr. Markus Heibel for this relaxed conversation about "the best side topic in the world"—and for showing the many ways people with MS can rediscover pleasure, closeness, and joyful intimacy.

See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
Nele

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