Sexual problems are not the easiest problem to discuss, even with your close family. Even confiding in your can be a daunting prospect. In fact, as a result of having diabetes, both men and women may suffer problems with their sex life.
Both men and women with diabetes can develop sexual problems because of damage to nerves and small blood vessels caused by diabetes. The nerves that control internal organs are called autonomic nerves, which signal the body to digest food and circulate blood without a person having to think about it.
The body’s response to sexual stimuli is also involuntary, governed by autonomic nerve signals that increase blood flow to the genitals and cause smooth muscle tissue to relax.
Damage to these autonomic nerves can hinder normal function. Reduced blood flow resulting from damage to blood vessels can also contribute to sexual dysfunction.
The problem may also by psychological because the more you worry about it, the more it affects your sex life.
There are several reasons why men with diabetes may suffer from sexual problems. Some of these problems are no different to those that the general male population might have.
Many men have impotence problems at some point during their lives, especially in their 50’s, 60’s and older. For men with diabetes, these problems can arrive 10 to 15 years earlier than for men without diabetes. Some estimates place the incidence of diabetes-related impotence in men at more than 40 percent.
Not only can this cause problems in a marriage but, more importantly, can cause severe depression in those who are contending not only with the disease of diabetes, but also what they deem the loss of their self esteem.
If a man continues to experience problems, he should discuss the situation with his doctor. Fortunately, there are certain medications and other treatments available to men who experience this common side effect to diabetes, with new medications being introduced.
Women with diabetes may also have sexual problems. Because of damage caused by high levels of blood glucose, dryness can occur that can make intercourse very painful.
Many women also report a complete loss of interest in sex. Needless to say, the lack of sexual desire can cause psychological problems for both men and women and may lead to marital difficulties as well.
Decreased sexual desire can be due to many factors, but one which does relates to women with diabetes is widely fluctuating blood glucose levels. Poor control of blood glucose can lead to tiredness and a lack of interest in sex. Bringing blood glucose control back under control may help restore desire.
Any women who experiences sexual problems or notices a change in sexual response should consider talking to their doctor. The doctor will ask about the patient’s medical history, the type and frequency of sexual problems, what medications she is taking, her smoking and drinking habits, and other health conditions. The doctor will also talk to the patient about blood glucose control.
The good news is that often there are treatments that can help you if you are suffering from diabetes-related sex problems. So, don’t despair, having diabetes shouldn’t mean that your sex life has to suffer.
Men and women’s sexual problems in diabetes may be partly prevented by maintaining good blood glucose levels and by eating a healthy diet. Enjoying regular exercise and taking your prescribed medication or insulin is essential and this will help your sense of wellbeing.
Never put off discussing with your doctor a sexual problem related to diabetes. New medications are now available to help with this problem.
