Behavioral Intervention for Sexual Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis

(BIPAMS-SD Trial)

Age: 18 - 65

Sex: Female

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Alabama at Birmingham

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

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.

Research Team

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for women aged 18-45 with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and sexual dysfunction, who are in a committed relationship. Participants must be able to walk without help, have low physical activity levels, internet access, speak English, and not be at risk of injury from exercise.

Inclusion Criteria

You have been diagnosed with sexual dysfunction using specific interview guidelines.

I have not had a relapse in the last 30 days.

I am between 18 and 45 years old.

Exclusion Criteria

You have a high risk of getting hurt or dying from intense exercise.

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Behavioural intervention for physical activity for multiple sclerosis (BIPAMS) (Behavioural Intervention)

Trial Overview The study tests an online program promoting physical activity (BIPAMS) to improve sexual dysfunction in women with MS. It explores if regular exercise can enhance well-being and quality of life by managing symptoms related to sexual health.

Participant Groups

Group I: Behavioral Intervention for Physical Activity in MS (BIPAMS) Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

A behavioral intervention that involves an internet website and one-on-one video coaching calls for increasing physical activity in people with MS.

Group II: waitlist control condition Active Control 1 Intervention

Participants will have 16-weeks of no intervention or interaction.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Lead Sponsor

Trials

1,677

Recruited

2,458,000+

Kierstin Kennedy

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Chief Medical Officer since 2022

MD

S. Dawn Bulgarella

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Chief Executive Officer since 2023

BSc in Commerce and Business Administration from the University of Alabama, MS in Health Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Collaborator

Trials

100

Recruited

10,600+

Dr. Tim Coetzee

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Chief Executive Officer

PhD in Molecular Biology

Dr. Gertrude S. Carter

National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Chief Medical Officer since 2015

MD from Harvard Medical School