Introduction
Diabetes is a condition where there is an increased blood sugar level, and the body can not utilize the sugar properly. In the long run, it may result in complications like nerve damage or cardiovascular problems, where both conditions impact sexual life. Diabetes impacts a person's self-esteem and mental health, which may affect their sexual life.
What Is the Effect of Sugar on Hormones?
Sugar is responsible for major highs and lows related to mood and energy, which can also destroy one of the insulin hormones. Insulin is closely related to all other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. When the levels of insulin rise after a meal rich in sugar, which can reduce the level of a protein called SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). This protein SHBG attaches increased estrogen and testosterone hormones, but when these proteins are low, the levels of these hormones increases. Insulin also enhances testosterone synthesis, which is converted to estrogen by fat tissues in the belly.
These effects result in an increased ratio of estrogen to progesterone, causing irritability, anxiety, insomnia, etc. As the woman enters menopause, the signs and symptoms get even worse and can cause hot flashes and night sweats.
How Increased Sugar Impacts Women?
Increased levels of sugar can cause nerve damage in the entire body. In women, this can disturb:
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The ability of sexual trigger and arousal.
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The secretion of vaginal lubricant.
This may result in painful sexual activity and reduce the chance of experiencing an orgasm. During the menopause stage, women with diabetes may undergo sudden drops in their blood sugar levels. This condition affects sexual activity as they may have symptoms of low blood sugar during sexual activity. This makes sex more of an inappropriate activity than a pleasure. Such women should have a check of their blood sugar level before sex. Women with high blood sugar are more prone to infections like thrush, cystitis, and UTIs (urinary tract infections). All these conditions have a negative impact on sexual activity.
How Does High Blood Sugar Impact Men?
Studies reveal that men with increased blood sugar levels may have reduced testosterone levels, which negatively impacts the sex drive. The main issue faced by men having diabetes is their inability to maintain or achieve an erection, called erectile dysfunction (ED). For a man to achieve an erection, there should be the proper amount of blood flow to the penis, whereas, in the case of diabetes, the blood vessels are damaged, affecting the blood flow to the penis. Diabetes also causes nerve damage, making it difficult for men to maintain an erection.
Type 2 diabetes occurs along with other conditions like obesity or increased weight. These conditions can also enhance the risk of erectile dysfunction. According to American Diabetes Association, 10 to 20 % of cases of erectile dysfunction are caused due to:
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Stress.
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Depression.
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Low self-esteem.
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Fear of sexual failure.
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Other mental health conditions.
What Is the Impact of Diabetes on Both Sexes?
People with diabetes usually feel tired. They may also be affected by other health conditions caused due to complications and spend most of their time caring for their health. Some factors may reduce the overall sex drive; these are
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Using an Insulin Pump: People affected with diabetes wear a tiny pump that supplies insulin. This regular supply of insulin to the body helps to manage the sugar level and improve sexual activity. However, the person will be more careful while using such pumps and will fear them getting detached. Removing the pump for about an hour during intimacy is safe, and it does not cause much harm when the pump is detached. But once detached, it should be reattached within 45 minutes to one hour.
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Physiological Impact: Physiological impact plays a significant role in a person’s sexual activity. Some examples are:
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Alteration of self-image.
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Anxiety.
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Concern over weight gain.
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Depression and stress.
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Isolation.
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Loneliness.
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Loss of self-esteem.
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- Medication: Some medications that can help people to manage mental health illnesses caused due to diabetes are called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac and Zoloft. This medication helps to deal with depression but can also decrease libido.
How Can This Condition Be Treated?
Ways through which the blood sugar levels can be maintained are:
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Intake of insulin.
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Medications.
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Regular checkup of blood sugar level.
What Are the Treatment Options for Men?
Doctors recommend many medications to enhance blood flow and improve the ability of a man to achieve an erection. Some medications include:
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Sildenafil.
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Tadalafil.
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Vardenafil.
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Avanafil.
These medications will not be a good option for all men, especially those with a heart condition and high blood pressure. Alternative mechanical techniques like vacuum pumps and penile injections are also used by some to increase blood flow. In addition, some men choose the option of surgery like a penile implant which increases the chances of erection.
What Are the Treatment Options for Women?
Women use vaginal lubricant before engaging in sexual activity to minimize pain during intercourse. The lubricant used should be water-based.
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Hormone Replacement Therapies: Hormonal replacement therapy can enhance sexual desire for both men and women. However, this therapy may result in side effects, so a proper consultation with the doctor should be done before initiating the intake of medications.
What Are Some Lifestyle Tips to Be Followed?
Following and living a healthy lifestyle is an important way for men and women with diabetic conditions to enhance their overall sense of well-being and their sexual health. Some of the tips to be included are:
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Intake of a healthy diet.
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Regular exercise.
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Maintaining a healthy weight.
When Should a Person Consult a Doctor?
Studies show that people with diabetes of age 57 to 85 years engage in sexual activity two to three times a week. People who have diabetes and have any concerns regarding their sexual health can consult a doctor. The doctor may also recommend the person see a therapist to improve their self-esteem and self-perception. Couple counseling can also be beneficial.
Conclusion
Diabetes is a condition of increased blood sugar levels. This has a major impact on the sexual health of males and females. High blood sugar causes nerve damage throughout the body, affecting sexual health. Cutting back on sugar can improve overall health as well improve libido. Proper medication and some lifestyle changes help to reduce the blood sugar level, which in turn helps to improve the overall health of a person.
