A Sexual Functioning Scale in multiple sclerosis.

73 MS patients were graded on a 5-point Sexual Functioning Scale in the process of routine data collection for the Minimal Record of Disability in MS. 45% of the patients were less sexually active or inactive since the onset of MS. 27% were concerned about this situation. The Demographic features, impairment, disability and handicap profile of patients in the various Sexual Functioning Scale categories was analysed. The sexually less active or inactive patients were different from the active-as-before-MS patients in various ways, but most significantly in their difficulties with toilet transfer and bladder functioning. The concerned patients were bladder functioning. The concerned patients were also different from not concerned patient in various ways, but most significantly in their problems with ambulation and in maintaining their usual financial standards. Further studies are required to begin to understand the natural history of sex problems in MS.