Sexual Dysfunction
Diabetes can occasionally contribute to problems when having sex, so it is good to be aware of some of the things that may happen, so you are prepared.
If you use insulin to manage your diabetes then remember that sex like other activities/exercise may cause blood glucose levels to drop, and you may be at risk of having a hypo, particularly if you have been drinking alcohol. It’s a good idea to test your blood glucose before and after sex and have something sugary nearby.
Having persistent high glucose levels can cause damage to blood vessels and nerves which can increase risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), vaginal dryness, thrush or lack of sensation in women, and erectile dysfunction and UTIs in men.
Erectile dysfunction can also be due to some medications you may take for your diabetes. If this happens then speak to your GP or diabetes care team as there are a number of treatment options available such as Viagra. In some cases, counselling may be beneficial.
Going through the menopause when you have diabetes can be difficult. It’s important to know how your hormones can affect your blood glucose levels and what you can do to manage the symptoms of menopause. Having diabetes increases the risk of some of the health conditions that are associated with menopause such as heart disease and bone problems.
Take a look at our resources below to find out how diabetes can affect your reproductive health.
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Type-2 diabetes and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Doctors have been reluctant in the past, to prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for perimenopausal women with type-2 diabetes (T2DM). This was because diabetes is known to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, and HRT was also believed to do the same.