Diabetes is a long-term health condition that can cause damage to your nerves, blood flow, and hormones. This damage can lead to losing feeling in your genitals, making it hard to get excited about sex, get an erection, or for your body to create enough lubrication (wetness) for comfortable sex. The stress of managing diabetes can also have an impact on your overall health, including your sex life.
That said, many people with diabetes have satisfying sex lives. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and have pleasurable sex while living with diabetes:
- Control your blood sugar levels. Keep your blood glucose levels under control. This can help lessen damage to your blood vessels and nerves, which provide blood flow, moisture, and stimulation to your genitals. Talk to your nurse or doctor about the best way to control your sugar levels.
- Eat healthy foods and move your body. A healthy diet and regular exercise are very important to keep diabetes under control and keep your circulation (blood flow) working as it should.
- Don’t smoke and have less alcohol. Smoking and drinking alcohol can worsen blood flow problems and make it harder to have sex.
- Take care of your mental health. Diabetes can make you feel anxious or depressed. Seek support if you need it, whether from friends, family, or a mental health professional.
If you’re having a hard time having sex or think you may have sexual dysfunction, you can contact your nearest Planned Parenthood health center where a nurse or doctor can help you get the care you need.
Tags: sexual-dysfunction, diabetes