CompletedInterventional

Developing and assessing the feasibility of a psychosexual treatment for sexual difficulties in people with multiple sclerosis.

Between 50% and 80% of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience sexual difficulties, such as nerve pain, loss of sensation, or emotional distress. NHS support for these personal issues is often limited, and talking about them can feel uncomfortable for both patients and healthcare staff. This study tests a new psychological support programme called PIMS (Psychosexual Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis). It combines practical education, intimacy exercises, and ways to manage worries about body image and sex. Around 50 adults with MS will be split into two groups by chance. One group receives the 8-session PIMS programme, while the other receives a one-off 20-minute education session with an NHS professional. The study is run mainly online and over the phone. The results will help researchers design better sexual and emotional support for people living with MS across the UK.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Enrolment target

Start

01 Nov 2022

Estimated completion

29 Feb 2024

Adults with multiple sclerosis experiencing sexual difficulties

What is this study about?

Sexual problems are very common in multiple sclerosis (MS), affecting up to 8 out of 10 people. These can include physical changes like numbness or pain, difficulty getting aroused, and emotional worries about body image or intimacy. Despite being so common, these issues are rarely spoken about in routine appointments, and patients often struggle to find proper help beyond medication.

This study explores whether a specialised talking-based approach can help. The programme, called PIMS (Psychosexual Intervention for Multiple Sclerosis), blends sexual health education with practical intimacy techniques. It is designed to help people focus on pleasure, rebuild confidence, and talk more easily with their partners about their needs.

Because this is an early-stage 'feasibility' study, the main goal is to find out if the programme is easy to use, acceptable to patients, and practical for NHS staff to deliver. The information gathered from this study will help researchers decide if a larger, nationwide trial should be carried out in the future.

Key takeaways

Tests a new psychological programme designed to help people with MS manage sexual and intimacy difficulties.
Open to adults with MS who attend neurology clinics at King's College Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, or Milton Keynes.
Compares an 8-session support programme against a single 20-minute sexual education session.
Most sessions and questionnaires can be done from home via video call or phone.
Taking part is completely voluntary and does not involve testing any new medicines.

Who may be eligible?

You may be able to join this study if you are 18 or older, have a confirmed diagnosis of MS, and are currently experiencing sexual or intimacy difficulties. You must also be receiving care at one of the participating neurology clinics: King's College Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, or Milton Keynes Community Health Services. Because the materials and sessions are in English, you will need to be able to read and speak English comfortably.

You cannot take part if you are currently having another type of talking therapy (psychotherapy) or are taking part in another psychological research study. You will also not be able to join if you have a severe mental health condition (such as psychosis) or severe eyesight or hearing problems that would make it too difficult to complete the sessions.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I am aged 18 or older.
I have a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS).
I am currently experiencing sexual or intimacy difficulties.
I attend neurology appointments at King's College Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, or Milton Keynes Community Health Services.
I am comfortable reading and speaking in English.
I am not currently receiving other psychotherapy or taking part in another talking therapy trial.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, you will be placed into one of two groups by chance (like flipping a coin). One group will receive the PIMS programme, which includes 8 sessions of up to 50 minutes each. Most of this programme is guided self-work, but two sessions will be one-to-one discussions with a trained NHS clinician. The other group will have a single 20-minute educational session with a healthcare professional to discuss sexual difficulties and available support. No new medications are involved.

You will be asked to fill in questionnaires about your emotional wellbeing, sexual function, and relationship communication before and after the programme. You may also be invited to take part in a feedback interview to share your thoughts on how the study went. Most appointments and questionnaires can be completed remotely from home by phone or video call.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part may help improve your intimacy, confidence, and sexual wellbeing, and you will have dedicated time to talk through your concerns with a trained NHS professional. Your feedback will also help improve future care for other people with MS. The main downside is the time required to attend sessions and complete questionnaires. Discussing personal topics like sex and relationships can sometimes feel sensitive or uncomfortable, though you will never be forced to share anything you prefer to keep private. Taking part is completely voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time without your regular NHS care being affected.

Locations (3)

Kings College Hospital
Approximate
London, England
Bletchley Community Hospital
City only
Milton Keynes, England
Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Approximate
London, England

Common questions

Do I have to take any new medications in this study?

No. This study only involves talking sessions, educational materials, and questionnaires. It does not test any drugs.

Do I need to travel to the hospital?

Most of the study is run remotely using phone or video calls and online materials. In-person appointments may be possible if you and the research team agree, but they are not required.

Will I have to reveal private details about my sex life?

You will be asked general questions about your intimacy and wellbeing, but you are always in control. You never have to share anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.

Which group will I be placed in?

A computer programme will place you into one of the two groups by chance. Neither you nor the researchers can choose your group.

What happens if I decide I want to stop?

You can leave the study at any time without giving a reason. Leaving will not affect the medical care or support you receive from the NHS.

How to find out more

Rona Moss-Morris

rona.moss-morris@kcl.ac.uk +44 (0)20 7188 0178 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.