Behavioral Intervention for Physical Activity and Sexual Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis

Behavioral Intervention for Physical Activity and Sexual Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis

The prevalence of sexual dysfunction is higher among women with multiple sclerosis (MS) than women in the general population. The presence of sexual dysfunction is associated with decreased well-being and quality of life. There is limited research supporting pharmacological and other therapeutic approaches for managing sexual dysfunction in MS. Physical activity has beneficial effects on many of the consequences of MS, and physical activity represents a promising non-pharmacological approach for managing symptoms of sexual dysfunction in MS. The proposed research examines the effect of an Internet-delivered lifestyle physical activity intervention for improving sexual dysfunction in women with MS. The research proposed, if successful, will provide evidence for the efficacy of physical activity as a translatable approach for managing sexual dysfunction among women with MS.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Female

2. Diagnosed of relapsing remmiting multiple sclerosis

3. Relapse free in the past 30 days

4. Initial confirmation of sexual dysfunction (based on a semi-structured interview on sexual dysfunction diagnostic criteria in DSM-5)

5. Currently in a committed relationship with a partner who does not have a sexual disorder or sexual dysfunction

6. Internet and email access

7. Willingness to complete the questionnaires, wear the pedometer, and undergo randomization

8. Insufficient physical activity [not meeting current physical activity guidelines based on a health contribution score of less than 14 units from the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ)]

9. Ability to ambulate without assistance [self-report and Patient-Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) score between 0 and 2 (mild ambulatory disability)]

10. Age between 18 and 45 years

11. English as primary language

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    Exclusion Criteria:

1. Moderate or high risk for contraindications of possible injury or death when undertaking strenous or maximal exercise

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