Menopause in Multiple Sclerosis

 MS is an autoimmune disease that targets the myelin sheaths of brain, optic nerve, and spinal cord cells leading to progressive neurologic compromise.  The onset of MS occurs typically in women of child bearing age.  There is overlap between MS symptoms and menopausal morbidities including sexual dysfunction, mood disorders, and bladder dysfunction.  During the peri-menopausal timeline patients experience greater symptom frustration and MS exacerbations complicated by hot flashes and sleep disturbance.  There is typically a swift progression of MS relapse after menopause raising a consideration for hormone replacement therapy.

Bove, R. Journal of Neurology. 2014. 261:1257-68.