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Sexual function in men and women with neurological disorders
Peter M Rees1, Clare J Fowler, Cornelis P Maas
1Burnaby Hospital, Neurology Department, Burnaby, BC, Canada. bassonrees@telus.net
Lancet (London, England)
|February 13, 2007
Summary
Neurological disorders and their treatments can significantly impact sexual function by affecting brain regions, nerves, and spinal cord pathways. Understanding these connections is key to managing sexual dysfunction in patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sexual Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Non-invasive functional brain imaging reveals brain regions involved in sexual arousal.
- Neurological injuries affecting pathways between genitalia and cognitive centers can impact sexual wellbeing.
- Epilepsy presents complex sexual dysfunctions (hyper- and hyposexuality) linked to brain activity and medication side effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the sexual consequences of common neurological disorders.
- To discuss the management of sexual dysfunction arising from neurological diseases and their treatments.
- To explore potential mitigation strategies for sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on neurological disorders and sexual function.
- Analysis of the interplay between neurological conditions, brain circuitry, and sexual responses.
- Discussion of therapeutic interventions and surgical approaches.
Main Results:
- Neurological conditions such as epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease are associated with significant sexual dysfunction.
- Both the diseases themselves and their pharmacological treatments can alter sexual function.
- Surgical interventions, particularly nerve-sparing techniques, show potential in reducing sexual dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Sexual dysfunction is a common and significant consequence of various neurological disorders.
- Comprehensive management strategies are needed, addressing both disease-related and treatment-related sexual issues.
- Advancements in surgical techniques may offer improved sexual health outcomes for affected individuals.
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