Did you know high blood sugars can directly effect your sex life? It is something I have never put more than 2 minutes of thought into. Because of being diabetic, my va va va voom can be, well let’s just say, not too voom. I was pleased to find more than ample research and articles on this otherwise taboo topic. Not so much taboo for my generation, but for the ones before me.

Let’s get the sexual problems out in the open and learn how to keep the “pep in our step”!! Wink,wink.

Long-term diabetes can cause damage to the nervous system, which is involved in the complete process of erection.

The most common sexual disorder linked to diabetes among men is erectile dysfunction (ED). Blood vessel’s are damaged by high blood sugars not allowing the blood flow to be optimal at the essential areas, catch my drift. Also, impotence can be a problem for some men due to nerve damage or neuropathies. Doctors are more than happy to offer solutions to these embarrassing, but very real complications associated with diabetes.

While sex seems to be everywhere –television, billboards and advertising–Americans are still reluctant to go to the doctor to talk about a sexual problem or issue. However, many people, whether they have diabetes or not, have sexual problems. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported in February of 1999 about a survey conducted of 1,749 women and 1,410 men aged 18 to 59. The survey found sexual dysfunction is more prevalent for women (43%) than men (31%).

That is a shocker! I was surprised to read the the survey results. Women are found to have more sexual dysfunction than men. There are many very easy and logical solutions to the most common sexual complaints among women. The chance of increased vaginitis in diabetic women can be combated with macrobiotics like yogurt or if more severe, over the counter medication. Vaginitis can lead to painful sex. So can a lack in lubrication. This can be an issue due to decreased nerve perception, which can be treated with medication.

There is also some suggestion that women with diabetes have problems with arousal, and just as the penis fails to become erect in the man, the clitoris in a woman may not respond to stimulation in the normal way.

Diabetics also have to be careful while they are basking in the afterglow of their “together” time.

If you use insulin, be aware that sometimes sex can cause low blood sugar levels. Test your blood sugar before having sex or consider eating just before or right afterwards as you would for exercise. Also you may want to have a snack before going to sleep at night.

Like I mentioned above, not many are excited or comfortable talking about their sexual problems with their doctors, but it is the only way to get help. Consider visiting the doctor with your partner or spouse if it would relieve some anxiety and angst. After all, it does take two to tango!