“If your doctor doesn’t suggest it, help yourself out by looking into the many alternative treatments that are available today. And, by all means, join the Well Spouse Association. Their newsletter, Mainstay, can be a lifesaver for the spousal caregiver.”
—AMIE, PARKINSON’S CAREGIVER
Many spouses caring for someone with Parkinson’s have difficulties talking about the topic of sex and for good reason: it’s a sensitive and sometimes uncomfortable and embarrassing subject. As you’ve been caring for your loved one with PD, you may or may not have encountered the problems the disease can cause with respect to your sex life, such as a decreased sex drive, hypersexuality, or difficulties with arousal.
Decreased dopamine levels may cause a decrease in sex drive in Parkinson’s brains, but it is more likely a result of stress, anxiety, and depression in the aftermath of diagnosis. And many people with depression are prescribed antidepressants, which themselves often decrease libido.
On the opposite end of the spectrum are those who experience hypersexuality, an impulsive and compulsive behavior in which people find themselves preoccupied with sexual feelings and thoughts. Hypersexuality can be a side effect of dopamine agonists (and sometimes levodopa), so if it becomes an issue, a change of meds may be needed. Ask your spouse’s doctor to see what the options are.
For men with PD, erectile dysfunction is common. Of course, erection problems are common in men anyway as they age, but men with PD can have even more trouble with this as the disease negatively impacts the central nervous system, circulation, and muscle function. Erectile dysfunction can affect self-esteem so it’s important to be sensitive to that as well.
Women with PD may feel that their symptoms make them less attractive or desirable to their partner. Also, the hormone changes of menopause may contribute to some women having a decreased desire for sexual relationships.
Though it may seem less romantic, you might need to do a little planning before being physically intimate, or possibly consider different ways of doing so.
If your spouse has Issues with erectile dysfunction, he may find certain medications helpful. Consult with the doctor to discuss possible drug treatments, as well as their potential side effects.