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Relationship satisfaction and sexuality in Huntington's disease

Eva Reininghaus1, Nina Lackner1

  • 1Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.

Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|May 25, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Huntington's disease (HD) genetic testing decisions impact family planning and relationships, but most positive results don't change childbearing choices. HD also significantly affects sexual health in both men and women.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Genetics
  • Psychology

Background:

  • Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive, disabling neurodegenerative disorder.
  • HD presents significant challenges including cognitive, motor, and personality changes.
  • Genetic transmission risk adds complexity to family planning and relationship dynamics for at-risk individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the impact of genetic testing for Huntington's disease on family planning decisions.
  • To investigate the prevalence and nature of sexual dysfunction associated with Huntington's disease.
  • To highlight the need for comprehensive psychological support for HD patients and families.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on Huntington's disease genetic testing.
  • Analysis of studies examining sexuality and sexual dysfunction in HD patients.
  • Synthesis of information regarding psychological and familial impacts.

Main Results:

  • Most individuals with a positive genetic test for HD do not alter their family planning decisions.
  • A high percentage of individuals with HD experience sexual problems, varying from hypoactive sexual disorder to increased sexual interest and paraphilias.
  • Genetic testing decisions for HD are often linked to significant stress concerning family planning and relationships.

Conclusions:

  • Psychological support is crucial for individuals at risk of Huntington's disease, focusing on realistic expectations about disease progression and genetic transmission.
  • Understanding the multifaceted impact of HD, including sexual dysfunction, is essential for holistic patient care.
  • While genetic testing is a significant consideration, its direct impact on reproductive choices in HD may be less pronounced than anticipated.

Keywords:
Huntington's diseasefamily planningpartnershippsychosocial consequencessexual dysfunction

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