Sexual Problems in Parkinson’s | Safe4cure

As with any subject that even somewhat makes us uncomfortable, Sexual issues are usually disregarded. The subject is rarely discussed or brought up by your doctor outside of the bedroom (and can be awkward even there). However, sexual changes are a common occurrence for Parkinson's patients and are a normal part of ageing.

Symptoms of Parkinson's disease and treatments can alter sexual health:

• It can be more difficult to engage in sexual activities when you're stiff and slow.
• Tremor and dyskinesia can be uncomfortable or inconvenient, especially since they seem to get worse when people are excited.
• Depression and fatigue, which are typical in PD, can lower sex drive.
• Dopamine agonists, a class of Parkinson's medications, can heighten sexual arousal and activity. Some antidepressants have the opposite effect and decrease sexual interest.
• Relationships can also be impacted by changes in your body image and appearance as well as new household duties and obligations.

Challenges for Men

For males with Parkinson's, erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most prevalent sexual issue. Sexual drive, erections, and orgasm can be decreased by medication side effects, a condition that is developing, and non-motor symptoms like anxiety or apathy.

Addressing depression may help ED because ED and depression usually coexist. Some medications, however, can also reduce sex drive and cause ED. Ask your physician about more modern medications that are less likely to result in ED. Among the other therapies for ED are drugs like Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil), talk or physical therapy, hoover devices, and surgical implants.

Challenges for Women

Women who have Parkinson's disease may experience decreased sex drive and orgasmic problems. Others feel discomfort during intercourse, often as a result of insufficient lubrication. Changes in the oestrogen hormone could be at work. Parkinson's disease also seems to be impacted by oestrogen, though the details of this relationship remain uncertain. Body image is a problem for many women, and the physical changes brought on by PD, as well as any potential societal stigma, may have an effect on how a woman feels about her own body. Treatment options include adding lubrication, scheduling sex for moments when Parkinson's symptoms are under control, and speaking with a therapist.

Treatments and Strategies

When planning your sexual activities, take into account when your medication usually functions the best.

Try different things until you and your spouse find what works best. Also, look for non-sexual methods to show your partner you care.

Inquire about treatments with your doctor: There are prescription drugs for specific issues like erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness. In order to assist you manage your symptoms, your doctor might also recommend that you see a gynaecologist or urologist.

Describe your experience honestly: Don't be ashamed or frightened to talk to your doctor about changes in your sex drive or activities. This can indicate that it's time to modify or switch drugs.

See this article for details on the causes of Men Health.