Diabetes can have a profound effect upon a person’s sexual drive, functioning and satisfaction. This is especially apparent in men although there is some evidence that some women with diabetes can also experience adverse effects on their sexual responses. The reason for the significant effects on male sexual function arises from the complexity of the penile erection mechanism. This requires satisfactory nerve, blood vessel and hormone function to be achieved and sustained. Diabetic nerve damage can be of two main types. One form is damage to the system that serves conscious movement and sensation and the other is damage to the system that serves unconscious or automatic responses such as bowel contraction and the heartbeat. The erectile mechanism is served by the latter while the sensation of pleasure in sexual performance is served by the former. Since the nerves to the genital area are relatively lengthy, they are prone to the damage.
Normal erectile function also depends on a healthy blood supply to the penis as erection entails engorgement of the organ with blood. If the blood supply is compromised, the quality of the erection will be poor.
Finally,
normal levels of the male hormone testosterone are necessary not only
for sexual interest (libido), but also for perception of pleasurable
sensations from sexual arousal. Low testosterone levels, already
common in middle-aged and older men are even more common in men with
diabetes. Indeed, there is suggestive evidence that low testosterone
levels may contribute to worsening of diabetes, thus creating a
vicious cycle that further depresses hormone levels. In light of the
three strikes of diabetic nerve damage, vascular damage and
diminished levels of male hormone, it is not surprising that poor
sexual performance and diminished satisfaction are a frequent finding
in men with diabetes. Indeed, more than half of all men with type 2
diabetes of five or more years’ duration may complain of one or
more symptoms of sexual dysfunction. Sometimes this is worsened by
medications commonly used by people with diabetes such as certain
blood pressure-lowering drugs.
Retrograde ejaculation can also
happen. This is a condition in which part or all of a man’s semen
goes into the bladder instead of out the tip of the penis during
ejaculation. Retrograde ejaculation occurs when internal muscles,
called sphincters, do not function normally. A sphincter
automatically opens or closes a passage in the body. With retrograde
ejaculation, semen enters the bladder, mixes with urine, and leaves
the body during urination without harming the bladder. A man
experiencing retrograde ejaculation may notice that little semen is
discharged during ejaculation or may become aware of the condition if
fertility problems arise.
For women thrush is a common condition and decreased vaginal lubrication, resulting in vaginal dryness uncomfortable or painful sexual intercourse decreased or no desire for sexual activity decreased or absent sexual response decreased or absent sexual response can include the inability to become or remain aroused, reduced or no sensation in the genital area, and the constant or occasional inability to reach orgasm. Causes of sexual problems in women with diabetes include nerve damage, reduced blood flow to genital and vaginal tissues and hormonal changes. Good control of diabetes will help to prevent this. Hypos can be caused by active sex. Having hypo treatment at hand will help. It might be helpful to discuss hypos and what to expect with your partner.
Women who experience sexual problems or notice a change in sexual response should consider talking with a health care provider who will advise and may recommend physical exam and laboratory tests to help pinpoint causes of sexual problems. The health care provider will also talk with the patient about blood glucose control and he will prescribe drugs to correct the condition. Over-the-counter vaginal lubricants may be useful for women experiencing vaginal dryness. Techniques to treat decreased sexual response include changes in position and stimulation during sexual relations.
Problems around sexual dysfunction are often complex, and can be connected to emotional factors such as relationship difficulties, poor self-image, embarrassment and guilt. Tiredness, stress, alcohol, cigarettes and some recreational drugs also play their part.
Good news!! There is now a wide range of treatment options available for men with erection problems from oral drugs I.e Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn, Stendra, and Viagra — have been used successfully in people with diabetes. In Cialis, Levitra, Staxyn, Stendra, and Viagra etc
Fungua Roho and talk to your Doctor. Do NOT Buy any drugs from the pharmacies without talking to your Doctor First!
Psychological counseling may be helpful too.
