Effect of Diabetes on SEX
Effect of Diabetes on SEX
Introduction :
Diabetes is a very common chronic disease in India and across the world. It affects much more than a person’s diet. It can affect every aspect of their life, including sexual health and more so related with sexual dysfunction, found both in males and females. It is a very substantiated risk factor for sexual dysfunction in men, as a multiple increased risk of erectile dysfunction has been documented more in a diabetic person than with a nondiabetic person. Evidence regarding the connection between diabetes and sexual dysfunction among women is less conclusive. Female sexual function is more related to social and psychological components than to physiological outcome of diabetes. Diabetic people may display many clinical conditions, including hypertension, overweight, obesity, metabolic syndrome, smoking and atherogenic dislipidemea which contribute to high-risk factors for sexual dysfunction both in men and women. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) in Diabetes fluctuates between 35-60% and the prevalence of dry ejaculation can vary from 6-34%. Dry ejaculation means there is no expulsion of semen but the climax is felt in the brain. It is also called Retrograde Ejaculation. It is due to the involvement of Autonomic Nerves so that urinary sphincter doesn’t close at the time of ejaculation. It results in semen going into urinary bladder instead of outside.
When a person has diabetes, their body cannot use insulin proportionately and this leads to high blood sugar levels. This can lead to many other complications such as nerve damage and cardiovascular problems. It can also impact mental health, self-esteem. All this have implications on sexual health and dysfunction.
Impact on Women :
- The ability to experience sexual stimulation and arousal
- The release of vaginal lubricant
- Painful sex and reduced ability to experience orgasm
- Sudden drop in blood sugar during menopause
- Experience infections such as thrush, cystitis, and urinary tract infections.
Impact on Men :
- Reduced testosterone levels affects sex drive
- Damage of blood vessels, affecting blood flow to penis leading erectile dysfunction
- Nerve damage makes it difficult to maintain an erection.
All the above problems may make sexual intercourse more inconvenient than a pleasure.
People with diabetes often feel tired. They may also face various health concerns, due to complications and they may spend a major amount of their time in managing health. These factors may significantly decrease the overall sex drive.
Medication: Various drugs are available to treat people who are struggling with mental health issues as a result of diabetes known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). “Serotonin” is a chemical that has a wide range of functions in the human body. It is also called happy chemical, as it contributes to well-being and happiness. Medications can help reduce the incidence of depression, but they may also result in reduced libido (sexual drive).
Treatment: Maintaining a healthy blood sugar level is important in preventing nerve damage which can cause sexual health problems. There are many ways of managing blood sugar levels including using of insulin, taking medications and checking blood sugar regularly.
There various prescribed medications to enhance blood flow and improve achieve an erection- Like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. Other effective methods are the use of vacuum pumps and injections into penis. However, these medications may not be suitable to men with high blood pressure or heart conditions.
Women can use water-based vaginal lubricants before engaging in sex to reduce pain during sexual intercourse.
Medicines to treat ED are less effective if blood glucose is high so control of diabetes increase effect of medicines to treat erectile dysfunction (ED).
Harmon replacement therapies can also enhance sexual desire for both men and women. However, these therapies can have side effects too. Hence it is advised that people should discuss these issues with an Expert medical practitioner before taking any medication.
Improved lifestyle tips: Living a healthy lifestyle is an important way for men and women with diabetes to boost their sense of wellbeing as well as sexual health. Adoption of healthy lifestyles reduces insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress- all of which are desirable in diabetic patients. Improved well-being further results in the reduction and prevention of sexual dysfunction in both sexes.
Few lifestyle tips include :
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular exercising
- Healthy diet
- Pelvic floor exercises
- Stress reduction tools like meditation, book reading, listening to music
Conclusion: A person, whatever the treatment decisions are, should never feel ashamed or feel uncomfortable if diabetes affects their sexual function. Reaching to a trusted medical practitioner/professional and having an open, honest discussion with a partner can overall help in leading a healthier life with a better sex life. Control of Diabetes delay the possible effects but can’t stop it altogether.