Sexual intercourse and diabetes

Sex is an important part of relationships for adults of all ages. An unfulfilling sex life can lead to feelings of guilt and rejection, causing problems within a relationship. Levels of sexual desire vary widely between different people, and can change over time.

Sexual problems can be very difficult to discuss, particularly if the cause has not been identified. Therefore it’s important to know how to recognize the causes and symptoms of sexual dysfunction, so that it can be identified, discussed and treated or managed.

Sexual dysfunction is more common in people with diabetes because poorly controlled diabetes can damage the blood vessels and nervous system causing reduced blood flow and loss of sensation in sexual organs. This can contribute to vaginal dryness in women and erection difficulties in men. Other problems associated with diabetes – such as heart disease and depression – together with some medications and surgery (eg bladder, bowel, prostate) can increase the chances of sexual dysfunction in people with diabetes.

Thrush is a common condition, made worse by high blood glucose levels, which can make sex uncomfortable. Good control of diabetes will help to prevent this.

Hypos can be caused by active sex. Having hypo treatment on hand will help. It might be helpful to discuss hypos and what to expect with your partner.

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.

Women and sexual dysfunction

Although not as well researched as male sexual dysfunction (see below), there is growing recognition that female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is widely experienced. Research has found women with diabetes are twice as likely to experience problems as those without. You may experience sexual dysfunction caused by physical factors or the medication you are taking, or a combination of both. Emotional and lifestyle factors also contribute to sexual dysfunction. It is important to be aware of the links between causes and symptoms so that you can seek the most effective help and support.

It is recognized that the four main areas of sexuality that women experiencing FSD find difficulty with are: desire, arousal, dyspareunia (pain with intercourse) and orgasm. At present there is no medication available specifically for the treatment of FSD, but research is ongoing. However, treatments for women are available in the form of therapy and aids for lubrication and clitoral stimulation.

Men and sexual dysfunction

 Having diabetes doesn’t mean you will automatically develop sexual dysfunction. However, over half of all men with diabetes may be affected, and the possibility of problems increases with age. One of the most common sexual problems is erectile dysfunction (ED or impotence). This is an inability in getting and/or keeping an erection for sexual intercourse.

 Most men experience difficulties in achieving an erection at some time in their lives, and 10 per cent have continuing erection problems. ED affects both heterosexual and homosexual men. You may experience sexual dysfunction that is caused by physical factors or the medication you are taking, or both. Emotional and lifestyle factors can also contribute to sexual dysfunction.

It is important to be aware of some of the links between causes and symptoms so that you can find the most effective help and support. There is now a wide range of treatment options available for men with erection problems.