Sex is important to every relationship but very often intimacy diminishes and sexual desire wanes with the onset of diabetes. Data indicates that 25 per cent of all women and about 50 per cent of all men experience sexual problems as a result of their diabetic condition. The incidence of diabetes is on the rise in all populations, including Jamaica, with many persons being unaware that they have the disease until they experience sexual problems.
Diabetes is a serious, life-threatening disease which, if not managed properly, will lead to serious complications. Diabetes is a condition in which blood sugar is not regulated by insulin made by the pancreas. When the body does not produce enough insulin or use it properly, the body fails to use energy nutrients - carbohydrates, proteins and fats - in the normal way. As a result, glucose accumulates and sugar levels rise in the blood. Blood sugar passes out in the urine instead of being used for energy needs. This places extra strain on the kidneys and causes frequent urination and excessive thirst.
Erection
Diabetes which is unmanaged can damage nerve and blood vessels which affects sexual responses and are especially important to the process of erection. Subsequently, one-third of diabetic men may suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence. Men are diagnosed with ED when they consistently experience difficulty getting or maintaining an erection. Young diabetic men may also suffer from low levels of the male hormone testosterone, leading to reduced sex drive and erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone levels may also weaken bones and increase the risk for heart and vascular disease.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure and diabetes further compound problems with erections, as blood vessels may become damaged, blocking the release of nitric oxide. When there is a lack of nitric oxide, blood vessels become constricted and reduce the flow of blood to the penis, resulting in ED. High cholesterol also affects diabetics by interfering with the ability of the blood vessels to dilate. High cholesterol leads to build-up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels, reducing the blood flow to the penis.
Diabetic men who experience problems with erections should control bring their diabetes and adopt a healthy lifestyle, working with their doctors. Prescriptions to treat erectile dysfunction include psychotherapy, drug, therapy, nutrition, vacuum devices and surgery to repair damaged nerves.
Vaginal dryness
Women who suffer from diabetes may be robbed of their fertility, may have their eyesight threatened and may face increased risk of stroke or heart disease. Diabetic women may find that they no longer have a desire for sex and may become depressed. Depression and anxiety take away the desire for sex. Painful intercourse due to dryness of the vagina is one of the problems of diabetic women. They no longer enjoy sex and often take the blame for failing to satisfy their partners.
Counselling and medication can help depression and anxiety. Changes in hormonal levels, especially during menstrual periods, can lead to fluctuation in blood sugar levels, resulting in lack of interest in sex at that time. Hormonal changes at menopause can affect blood sugar levels. You may need to change diabetes medicine because of changes in blood glucose.
Total body care
Total diabetes body care is a healthy recommendation for managing diabetes while having an intimate relationship. Special care of all the body parts can prevent serious complications related to diabetes and keep intimacy in the union. When blood sugar is uncontrolled, blood vessels and nerves become damaged, the immune system breaks down and the body is less able to fight infections. It is important that personal care routines be set up for feet, eyes, teeth, gums, heart and skin.
The feet are vital to foreplay for sexual arousal. You should try to prevent common foot problems like athlete's foot, fungus in the toenails, calluses, corns, blisters, bunions, ingrown toenails and plantar warts. Diabetics may have nerve damage and not feel small wounds when they need treatment.
Foot care
Take care of the feet daily - washing, drying and examining tops and bottoms of the feet checking for wounds, blisters, redness, calluses and other changes. Ingrown toenails can be prevented by cutting toenails straight across and not down the corners. Diabetics should not go barefooted and should always wear properly fitting footwear. Diabetics should see a podiatrist (foot doctor) every two or three months.
Skin conditions are often caused by poor blood circulation and because the body may not fight infection well. Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist folds of the skin, under the breasts, around the nails, between fingers and toes and the armpit and groin areas. Jock itch (in the genitals and thighs), ringworm and vaginal infections are common when blood sugar is not controlled. Diabetes may result in itching, yeast infection or poor blood circulation, especially in the feet. It is important to dry all areas well and use talcum powder and moisturising lotions as needed.
Eye damage
Blood vessels in the eyes of diabetics may be damaged, leading to serious problems, such as cataracts, glaucoma and retinopathy. It is advisable to keep diabetes under control to prevent eye problems. An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) should be seen annually.
Diabetics are at risk for problems of the teeth and gum because the body is more vulnerable to bacteria and infection. Common mouth problems include gum inflammation, poor healing after dental treatment, dry mouth and burning mouth or tongue. Diabetics should advise their dentists of mouth infections or difficulties in controlling blood sugar levels, especially if routine dental procedures are to be done.
If you are a diabetic and you are concerned about keeping romance and intimacy in your love life, it is very important to keep diabetes under control and take steps to keep the total body healthy. With a healthy body and blood sugar under control, you will find that all the sexual responses will take place for satisfying sex and intimate moments.