Determining the Effects of Emotional Freedom Techniques on Sexual Dysfunction and Self‐Care Management in Women Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis

PMCID: PMC12171629

PMID: 40525294

DOI: 10.1002/brb3.70635

Journal: Brain and behavior

Publication Date: 2025-6-17

Authors: Çuvadar A, Güneş A, Baş YÇ, Kehaya S

Key Points

• EFT intervention demonstrated significant improvements in sexual functioning for MS patients
• Mean MSISQ-19 primary subscale scores reduced from 10.56 ± 4.11 at baseline to 6.50 ± 1.63 at 7 weeks
• EFT may be integrated into holistic care strategies for managing MS-related sexual and psychosocial challenges

Summary

This experimental study investigated the effects of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) on sexual dysfunction and self-care among women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Conducted at a university hospital in Türkiye, the research involved 16 women aged 19-49 with various MS types, who received two 60-minute EFT sessions monthly and additional weekly affirmation sessions.

The study revealed statistically significant improvements in sexual functioning across multiple domains, with MSISQ-19 subscale scores demonstrating consistent reduction from baseline to 7 weeks (p < 0.001). Notably, while self-protection scores decreased, social protection dimensions showed substantial enhancement. The findings suggest EFT as a potential complementary intervention for addressing the complex psychosexual challenges experienced by women with MS.