Along with the physical, mental and emotional stress that Type 2 diabetes can put you through, it also affects your sex life. Good sex life can be a wonderful way to stay healthy, is a great mood enhancer and improves the quality of your days. This is why you shouldn’t ignore your sexual health while managing diabetes. We’ve rounded up a list of all the possible ways a type 2 diabetes diagnosis could affect your sexual health and also offer suggestions on how to manage some of these conditions.
Common Sexual Problems
Like any chronic illness, Type 2 diabetes can wreak all the wrong kind of havoc in the bedroom. If you’ve just been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, here are the bumps on the road that you may encounter.
Decrease In Libido: This affects both men and women. Managing your illness can be exhausting. Your body is on a lot of medication and you get tired easily. You might also be suffering from depression. This can result in you constantly feeling like you’re not in the mood.
Diabetic Neuropathy: This condition, which causes numbness or a loss of feeling in the genitals, is a result of nerve damage. Often, it’s a cause of erectile dysfunction. The Cleveland Clinic estimates that about half of men diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes will suffer from Erectile Dysfunction. It is often the first symptom that leads to a diagnosis. Diabetic Neuropathy can also stop you from having orgasms and make it difficult for you to get sexually stimulated.
Retrograde Ejaculation: This condition is when men ejaculate semen into the bladder instead of out of the penis. It is the result of weakened internal sphincter muscles.
Vaginal Dryness: Hormonal changes and weak blood flow to the genitals can lead to vaginal dryness, infections and inflammation and a high risk of developing Urinary Tract infections. All of this can make sex uncomfortable or painful.
How To Manage Your Sexual Health
A roadblock in your sex life is no reason to get disheartened. Here are a few simple ways you can manage your sexual health when you get diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
Switch It Up: Try having sex at a different time of the day when you are not so tired or emotionally drained. A diagnosis can shift relationship roles and put a damper on your sex life, so schedule time to enjoy non-sexual intimacy like a massage or a date night to bring back a spark. Communicating your needs to your partner can go a long way, Consider couples counseling to address any relationship issues you have.
Use Lubricant and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): This will help with vaginal dryness and sexual problems caused by your fluctuating hormones. HRT comes in pill, patch or cream form and is even available as injectables.
Manage Your Health: Maintain proper blood sugar levels and always be aware of your glucose levels, build a lifestyle that promotes a healthy heart and maintains blood circulation. Exercise safely but regularly to improve your energy.