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How Diabetes is
related with Erectile Dysfunction
Diabetes affects many aspects of living including one
of the most intimate aspects of our life - sex. Sexual
intimacy is associated with positive emotional and physical
benefits. Sexual bonding induces the release of endorphins,
which impart a deep sense of relaxation, feelings of
well-being and intimacy.
Diabetes itself can mistakenly influence sexuality
in both men and women in multiple ways. The root of
the problems with desire, arousal and sexual function
in people with diabetes could be:
• Fatigue from high blood glucose levels
• Loss of desire as a result of depression, a
more common issue in diabetes
• Fear of having a low blood glucose reaction
during sex
• Decreased lubrication or frequent yeast infections
in women
• Erectile dysfunction in men
• Male and female genital nerve damage (neuropathy)
Neuropathy is known to cause sexual
dysfunction in up to 75% of men and up to 35% of
women with diabetes. Damage to the nerves in the sexual
regions of the body can reduce or interfere with the
ability to feel sexual sensations leading to difficulty
with arousal and orgasm. Hence, Glucose control is essential
for preventing nerve damage since once nerves have been
destroyed, sensation is rarely recovered.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the unspoken issues
for men with diabetes. Sadly, when it comes to ED, “don’t
ask, don’t tell” seems to be the commonly
accepted way of interaction between men and their healthcare
providers. This is unfortunate since up to 60% of men
with diabetes can successfully manage ED with the use
of prescription medications including Viagra, Cialis
or Levitra. Other therapies are also available for men
who do not respond to these medications.
Certain lifestyle factors can exacerbate sexual function.
Smoking, alcohol, high cholesterol, circulatory problems
and high blood pressure are all problematic to sexual
health. Surprisingly, proper diet and exercise can play
an important role in treating and preventing sexual
problems. Exercise, eating a diet lower in saturated
and trans-fats and eating good quality carbohydrates
in moderation can help improve circulation and consequently
improve blood flow to the sexual organs.
If you are having sexual problems, professional help
is within reach. Start by sharing your concerns with
your doctor or a qualified healthcare practitioner and
request a referral to an urologist or a gynecologist.
Additional help and referrals are also available from
the American Board of Sexology at www.sexologist.org
or the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors
and Therapists at www.aasect.org
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