It is often assumed that when you are suffering from a chronic illness, sexual health is the last thing that you are concerned about. In truth, your sexual wellness and wellbeing is vitally important to you, no matter what other difficulties you may be facing – and this is the case for those who are suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes has a number of sexuality issues that often accompany the disease. One of the most serious sexual health issues that affects those with type 2 diabetes is a decrease in libido (also known as a lack of sex drive). This can affect both men and women, and can be a cause of some frustration to those who suffer from the illness. Low libido can be a side effect of the medication taken to control type 2 diabetes, but it can also be the result of some of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, such as depression, extreme fatigue and lack of energy. Depression and hormonal changes can also be a contributing factor, as well as emotional issues such as stress and anxiety.
Diabetic neuropathy is also a condition that can affect the sexual health of diabetics, as this can result in a feeling of numbness in the genitals, or in some cases the genitals become painful. This can make it impossible to orgasm and can also lead to unenjoyable sex and a lack of response to sexual stimulation.
Sometimes, it can be an emotional issue; when one partner in a relationship becomes a caregiver for the other, when their partner develops diabetes, it can change the dynamic in the relationship and change the way that the partners feel about one another.
Some men also report suffering from erectile dysfunction as a result of their diabetes, which can be caused by muscle, nerve or vascular damage, changes in testosterone or diabetes-related weight issues.