Diabetes and Sexual Problems

Diabetics go through daily struggles with their ailment. And they still have to cope with other discomforts and pain associated with diabetes. One of the many complications that diabetics are likely to contend with are sexual problems. These sexual problems that are caused by diabetes affect both women and men, although not in the same way for both sexes. The nervous system governs the way how our bodies respond to all kinds of stimuli, including sexual stimuli. High blood sugar levels adversely affect the nervous system, which in turn create sexual problems for diabetics.
Male diabetics who have sexual problems often experience erectile dysfunction. In fact the American Diabetes Institute has estimated that no less than 85 percent of diabetic men go through various degrees of erectile dysfunction. Aside from the possibility of putting undue strain on their marriages, such a condition also takes a heavy toll on their emotional well-being. They have to contend not only with diabetes as a disease, they also have to grapple with sagging self-confidence.
The medical profession identifies erectile dysfunction as one of the symptoms of diabetes. Thus in a situation where a man experiences erectile dysfunction, especially for extended periods of time, it is important for him to consult his doctor to make sure if he is suffering from undiagnosed diabetes or not. It is a good thing that treatments or medications are available for men who are having sexual problems caused by diabetes. What patients need is to fully disclose their problems with their doctors.
Unfortunately, male sexual problems caused by diabetes are not limited to erectile dysfunction. There is also what is called as retrograde ejaculation. This problem can even be more dangerous or fatal for men with diabetes. Retrograde ejaculation is a condition where semen goes into the bladder rather than out of the penis when a man ejaculates. Fixing this disorder needs the help of a urologist who may intervene with either medication or surgery.
Sexual problems caused by diabetes do not affect men alone. Women who have diabetes are also vulnerable to experiencing sexual problems. As mentioned earlier, high blood glucose levels can damage the nervous system which, among women, can adversely affect the nerve cells surrounding the vagina. The female sex organ may not respond normally to sexual stimuli, such as lubrication of the vaginal canal during sexual intercourse, which can then result in a painful experience for the woman. There had also been reports that indicate many women who reported nerve damage from hyperglycemia have likewise lost sensation within their genital zones, causing them to lose interest in the sexual act itself. As with men who experience sexual problems due to diabetes, women whose desire for sex has waned can create psychological problems and put pressure on keeping their marriages alive.
Discussing with physicians is not as easy for patients whose ailments are related to sexual problems. But diabetics must understand that they are prone to a number of side effects that unfortunately may impinge upon sexual relations. The best recourse for them is always to seek the help of their physicians who, after fully discussing the problems with them, would be in the best position to provide medical treatment. There are a good number of treatments that can be applied by men and women who are experiencing sexual problems caused by diabetes.
The more common treatments include maintaining the normal levels of blood sugar through exercise, taking a healthy and low-carbohydrate diet and, in more serious cases, taking insulin or medication. Patients need to regularly monitor their blood glucose as directed by doctors. Any information related to sexual problems caused by diabetes is best disclosed to physicians. This way they get proper advice. By knowing what patients can do under their condition they can help themselves manage their sickness better and look forward to a healthier and longer life.