Diabetes is a very common chronic disease and in its clinical course the disease often leads to several other complications and end organ effects. Furthermore, the effects of diabetes increase along with the chronicity of the condition and the implications are mainly seen on your heart, liver, kidneys, eyes, and your overall health. Studies have shown that diabetes also causes sexual dysfunction by affecting the libido, sexual functioning, and the quality of sexual intercourse. In this health article we provide you a few insights on sexual dysfunction and diabetes. Read further to know more.

Does diabetes cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women?

Yes. Diabetes causes sexual dysfunction in both men and women. However, studies have established that sexual dysfunction is more common in men than in women. 

What are the common sexual problems due to diabetes?

In men diabetes has been majorly associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). The other sexual problems that can be associated with diabetes common to both men and women include:

  • Lack of or nonexistent libido - No desire to have sex
  • Lack of arousal or delayed arousal 
  • Decreased sensation and failure to achieve orgasm
  • Painful intercourse
  • Repeated genital infections

What are the probable causes for sexual dysfunction in a diabetic patient?

In general, the diabetic patients experience sexual dysfunction more often than non-diabetics. There are various reasons that may cause sexual dysfunction, which include:

  • The comorbidities - Diabetic patients often suffer other comorbidities such as high blood pressure, obesity, insomnia, and sleep apnea alongside diabetes which may contribute to lack of libido.
  • Hormonal changes - The long-standing diabetic state may negatively affect the production and functioning of sex hormones (testosterone in men and estrogen in women). 
  • Altered blood flow - Diabetes changes the blood flow pattern in your body. This might result in decreased blood reaching the genital organs. Compromised blood supply may result in failure to attain and sustain erection in men and vaginal dryness in women.
  • Altered sensation - Chronic diabetes causes significant nerve damage and other neuropathies. Any damage to the the nerve endings of the genital organs (tip of the penis in men and clitoris in women) may result in painful intercourse or decreased sexual sensation.
  • Psychological implications - The disease course, medications, comorbidities, time and energy invested in caring for diabetes, the changing body appearance, and various other factors may cause  a substantial psychological toll on the patient’s mental health (depression and anxiety) that may lead to disinterest in sex.

Is sexual dysfunction in diabetes treatable?

Yes. Sexual dysfunction in diabetes is treatable. 

Take Home Message - A fulfilling sexual life is very important for a happy and content life. If your diabetes is interfering with your sexual life, it is important to voice out your concerns to your health care providers, who will then assess your problems to identify the root cause of the problems and treat them in the best suitable way.

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