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MS-Perspektive - The Multiple Sclerosis Podcast

MS-Perspektive - The Multiple Sclerosis Podcast

By: Nele von Horsten
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About this listen

 In the MS-Perspektive Podcast, I present my view of multiple sclerosis and show you how you can make the best of the diagnosis. Because a beautiful and fulfilling life is also possible with multiple sclerosis. Here you will find information and strategies on how you can actively influence your course. In addition, I publish solo articles with my experiences, interview experts and on various topics related to living with MS as well as other affected people. In addition, there are a few episodes that serve the relaxation, positive attitude and stimulation.2023-2025 Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • #156: Reclaiming Intimacy with MS: Practical Help for Sexual Dysfunction (Expert Interview with Dr. Markus Heibel)

    #156: Reclaiming Intimacy with MS: Practical Help for Sexual Dysfunction (Expert Interview with Dr. Markus Heibel)
    Mar 4 2026
    Sexuality is still a taboo topic for many people with multiple sclerosis (MS), even though sexual dysfunction is a common symptom of the disease. In this episode, I speak with neurologist Dr. Markus Heibel, medical director of a specialized MS clinic in Germany, about why sexual problems occur in MS—and what can help. We discuss the difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual dysfunction, how symptoms like spasticity, pain, medication side effects, or psychological stress can affect intimacy, and which treatment options exist. Dr. Heibel also shares practical strategies from clinical practice—from physiotherapy and psychotherapy to communication within relationships and creative solutions that couples have found helpful. The conversation shows that fulfilling intimacy is still possible with MS—and that talking openly about the topic is often the first and most important step. 👉 Read the full interview and resources on the blog: https://ms-perspektive.com/156-dr-heibel Topics in this episode Why sexual dysfunction in MS is still a taboo topic Primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual dysfunction explained The role of medication, hormones, physiotherapy, and psychotherapy Practical strategies for couples living with MS Why communication and openness are key What people with MS can do themselves to improve intimacy Further resources on sexuality and multiple sclerosis Sexual health is an important part of overall wellbeing, but many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) still find it difficult to talk about intimacy, desire, and sexual dysfunction. Fortunately, several international MS organizations provide reliable information, practical advice, and educational materials about sexuality, relationships, and intimacy with MS. The following resources are good starting points if you would like to learn more or look for further support. Global resources MS International Federation (MSIF) – Relationships and intimacy Overview article on intimacy, relationships, and communication when living with MS. https://www.msif.org/living-with-ms/relationships-and-intimacy/ MS International Federation (MSIF) – Sexual problems Explains the different types of sexual dysfunction in MS (primary, secondary, tertiary) and common symptoms. https://www.msif.org/about-ms/symptoms-of-ms/sexual-problems/ MS International Federation (MSIF) – Sexuality and MS (resource guide) Educational resource covering topics such as body image, desire, intimacy, and coping strategies. https://www.msif.org/resource/sexuality-ms/ MS International Federation (MSIF) – Intimacy and Sexuality in MS (MS in Focus issue) A thematic publication with expert articles and patient perspectives on sexuality and MS. https://www.msif.org/resource/intimacy-and-sexuality-ms/ United States National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Sexual problems in MS Overview of sexual dysfunction in MS, including causes, treatment options, and communication tips for couples. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/understanding-ms/what-is-ms/ms-symptoms/sexual-problems National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Intimacy and MS Guidance on maintaining intimacy, emotional closeness, and communication in relationships affected by MS. https://www.nationalmssociety.org/managing-ms/living-with-ms/relationships/intimacy Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) – Sexual dysfunction Practical information about sexual symptoms, contributing factors, and possible treatment approaches. https://mymsaa.org/ms-information/symptoms/sexual-dysfunction/ United Kingdom MS Society (UK) – Sex and relationships Comprehensive information on intimacy, sexual health, and relationship challenges for people living with MS. https://www.mssociety.org.uk/living-with-ms/physical-and-mental-health/sex-and-relationships MS Society (UK) – Sex and relationship problems Focused guidance on common sexual difficulties and possible ways to address them. https://www.mssociety.org.uk/living-with-ms/physical-and-mental-health/sex-and-relationships/sex-and-relationship-problems Canada MS Canada – Intimacy Resource page about emotional closeness, communication, and relationship changes when living with MS. https://mscanada.ca/intimacy MS Canada – Intimacy and sexuality Information about sexual function, body image, and maintaining a satisfying intimate life with MS. https://mscanada.ca/intimacy-and-sexuality Thank you to Dr. Markus Heibel for this relaxed conversation about "the best side topic in the world"—and for showing the many ways people with MS can rediscover pleasure, closeness, and joyful intimacy. See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free. Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
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    20 mins
  • #155: Genetic subtypes in MS. What they mean for your progression and treatment with Dr. Karim Kreft

    #155: Genetic subtypes in MS. What they mean for your progression and treatment with Dr. Karim Kreft
    Feb 25 2026

    Why does multiple sclerosis progress very differently from person to person? And could your genes help predict your individual MS pathway in the future?

    In this episode of the MS Perspektive Podcast, I speak with neurologist and researcher Dr. Karim Kreft from the University of Nottingham about his groundbreaking work on genetic subtypes in MS.

    His research explores whether known MS risk genes may also influence long-term disease progression and response to treatment. Using genetic clustering methods, his team identified three distinct genetic groups of MS patients – with interesting differences in progression and treatment benefit.

    While this research is not yet ready for clinical use, it offers an exciting glimpse into the future of personalized medicine in MS.

    What You'll Learn in This Episode

    • How much genetics actually contributes to MS risk

    • What "genetic clustering" means in simple terms

    • Why MS is such a heterogeneous disease

    • The three identified genetic subtypes in MS

    • Why one group benefited significantly more from treatment

    • Whether mild MS patients benefit differently from medication

    • The limitations of real-world data in MS research

    • Why future MS care may move beyond clinical labels

    • When genetic testing might become part of routine care

    About My Guest

    Dr. Karim Kreft is a consultant neurologist and Associate Professor in Neurology at the University of Nottingham, UK. His research focuses on understanding the biological mechanisms behind MS progression and improving personalized treatment strategies.

    A Hopeful Outlook

    Genetic testing has become dramatically more affordable in recent years. Although validation studies are still needed, this research may one day help predict prognosis and guide treatment decisions more precisely – potentially within the next decade.

    As always: this episode provides scientific insights but does not replace individual medical advice.

    Connect & Follow

    You can follow Dr. Kreft's research updates via LinkedIn and through the University of Nottingham.

    Read the full interview on genetic subtypes in MS and their impact on progression and treatment on my blog at: https://ms-perspektive.de/en/155-genetic-subtypes

    ---

    See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
    Nele

    For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free.

    Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far.
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    33 mins
  • #154: How Pharmacovigilance Keeps MS Therapies Safe: From Drug Development to Real-World Monitoring (with Dr. Nora Möhn)

    #154: How Pharmacovigilance Keeps MS Therapies Safe: From Drug Development to Real-World Monitoring (with Dr. Nora Möhn)
    Feb 18 2026
    How safe are MS therapies? And how do we actually know? In this episode, neurologist Dr. Nora Möhn explains the concept of pharmacovigilance — the continuous monitoring of drug safety from early development through approval and real-world use. This conversation was originally published in September 2023 on the German MS-Perspektive podcast. For this English edition, regulatory references and country-specific details have been carefully adapted to reflect internationally relevant systems and resources. The medical content remains fully up to date. You will learn: What pharmacovigilance means and why it is essential for people with MS How safety data is collected in Phase I–IV clinical trials How rare side effects are detected after market approval How neurologists assess the benefit-risk profile of MS therapies What special considerations apply during pregnancy, in children/adolescents, and in older patients How patients can report suspected side effects in different countries Why ongoing monitoring builds trust and treatment confidence A well-monitored therapy not only slows down MS — it enables long-term safety, confidence, and self-determined living. 🔗 Read the full article here: https://ms-perspektive.de//en/154-pharmacovigilance 🌍 International Pharmacovigilance Reporting Systems If you would like to report suspected side effects, you can contact your national medicines authority. Here are official resources: European Union European Medicines Agency (EMA) – EudraVigilance https://www.adrreports.eu https://www.ema.europa.eu United States FDA MedWatch Program https://www.fda.gov/medwatch https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program United Kingdom MHRA Yellow Card Scheme https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk Canada Health Canada – Canada Vigilance Program https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/medeffect-canada/adverse-reaction-reporting.html Is there anything else you would like to say to our listeners? Dr. Nora Möhn: I would like to express my sincere thanks for listening and for your interest in this exciting topic. I would also like to encourage all those affected to openly express any concerns or worries they may have regarding drug safety/potential side effects to their healthcare providers so that an informed treatment decision can be made in consultation with them. The field of MS therapeutics can sometimes be very confusing and overwhelming, so it is essential to address any uncertainties and fears. Where can you find her and her scientific work on the Internet? Dr. Nora Möhn: My scientific publications can be found via PubMed by searching for "Nora Möhn" on the website of the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NIH): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov Further professional information and updates can be found on my LinkedIn profile. --- I hope you now know more about pharmacovigilance and feel confident enough to discuss any concerns or fears you may have about the treatments suggested to you with your doctor. And remember, even though MS has become much less frightening, it is still a serious disease that should be slowed down as much as possible with medication and a healthy lifestyle. This will ensure that you can still lead a fulfilling life in several decades' time and won't have to regret missed opportunities. See you soon and try to make the best out of your life, Nele For more information and positive thoughts, subscribe to my newsletter for free. Click here for an overview of all podcast episodes published so far. ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer This podcast provides medical background information but does not replace individual medical advice. Please discuss all therapy decisions and concerns with your treating neurologist.
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    29 mins
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