[Chronic disease and sexuality. An interview study on sexual dysfunction in patients with multiple sclerosis]

Many patients with a chronic disease experience that this condition in some way influences their sexual life. In this paper we present the results from an interview survey of ten patients with multiple sclerosis. The aim of the survey was to assess sexual dysfunctions in patients with chronic disease, the patients' opinion about these matters, and the role of the health services. We found the extent of the sexual problems of these patients to be comparable with the findings presented in earlier studies. The majority of patients considered it a problem that the topic was never raised by their medical practitioner. The patients clearly indicate that it is important for them that this subject be discussed, and that they receive counselling. This task should predominantly be the responsibility of the general practitioner, since she/he is normally the one who ensures continuity in the care of the patients.