Intimacy and Sexuality in MS – A National MS Society Publication

BY Rosalind C. Kalb, PhD
A special thank you to Dr. Fred Foley for his work in this field on which much of this booklet is based.  This publication is supported by contributions to the National MS Society – 
Reviewed by members of the Client Education Committee of the
National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Clinical Advisory Board.
=========================================
Introduction


What does intimacy mean? For many people, the term is synonymous with sex — in other words, being intimate with another person means having a sexual relationship. 


A satisfying, intimate relationship, however, rests on a much broader foundation — of trust, open and honest communication, shared goals and expectations, and mutual respect and concern. So intimacy refers to all of the ways, both verbal and non-verbal, in which partners connect with
one another and enjoy their unique closeness.


This booklet discusses some of the ways in which MS can affect intimacy between partners — by bringing about changes in the roles and responsibilities in the relationship; disrupting people’s plans and expectations for the future;
changing sexual feelings and responses; and making it harder to share uncomfortable feelings and fears. Changes in any or all of these areas of daily life can affect a relationship’s delicate balance.


CONTINUE READING this in-depth  publication directly from the National MS Society archives.