New Delhi: Are you aware? Diabetes can cause sexual problems in men. Yes, that’s right! A large number of men are known to have erectile dysfunction (ED) which commonly occurring sexual problem in men. This article helps to understand the link between diabetes and sexual problems in men. Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology, at Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of Rang De Neela initiative, explained the association between diabetes and sexual health in men.
Currently, a large number of people are having diabetes (this means high blood sugar levels) and are suffering from complications related to this lifestyle disease. India is home to millions of diabetic patients who struggling due to unmanaged diabetes. Did you know? Uncontrolled Diabetes will not only lead to heart and kidney disease, stroke, gum disease, liver disease, nerve damage, osteoporosis, or gallbladder problems but also sexual dysfunction in men. Many people have sexual problems at some point in their lives, whether they have diabetes or not. However, those men with unmanaged diabetes are at a greater risk of sexual dysfunction (problems when you have sex). Sexual issues are also one of the unspoken complications of diabetes and are seen due to constantly high blood sugar levels.
Diabetes and sexual problems in men
Diabetes can affect one’s sexual health. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and circulatory issues, impairing erectile function and reducing libido. Moreover, the emotional toll of dealing with diabetes-related complications can lead to anxiety or depression, further exacerbating sexual difficulties. High diabetes causes nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) that can lead to sexual problems in men. Diabetes can hamper blood flow and damage the blood vessels leading to impacted flow to the genitals and one can thus encounter erectile dysfunction )known as impotence) means the inability to get or maintain an erection. According to various studies, those men with diabetes experience not only higher rates of erectile dysfunction but also reduced testosterone levels, and this can further strain their relationship with their partner. Moreover, the stigma and taboo linked to sexual health among diabetic men often prevent discussions or timely intervention as a majority of men tend to suffer in silence due to shame, embarrassment, guilt, and frustration. Instead of suffering in silence, men should be aware of their sexual health and seek prompt intervention without any delay.
What can be done?
Managing diabetes effectively with enough amount of awareness is key. First, maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial as it is a known fact that fluctuations can lead to nerve damage and reduced blood flow, affecting libido and performance. Hence, regular monitoring of glucose levels is important, and do so at home or with the help of an expert. Consulting the doctor for personalized management plans can empower individuals to take control of their sexual health without any fear. Likewise, open communication with partners is essential. Open communication with the expert is important to seek proactive solutions such as medical treatments or lifestyle modifications.
Incorporating regular exercise, maintaining stable blood sugar levels, and considering counseling for underlying emotional struggles may help with improving intimacy and strengthening the connection between partners. It will also be imperative for men to quit smoking and alcohol, de-stress by doing yoga and meditation, and eat a balanced diet. Moreover, men with diabetes and having sexual problems can take the help of support groups and learn from the experiences of other people.
Dr Sulbha Arora, Clinical Director, Nova IVF Fertility, Mumbai, said, “India has the second highest diabetic population in the world, with 74.9 million people aged 20–79 affected by diabetes in 2021. This number is expected to rise to 124.9 million by 2045. Diabetes significantly impacts sexual health and fertility in both men and women, often leading to nerve and blood vessel damage, as well as hormone abnormalities. Diabetes in males may lower testosterone levels, which can result in erectile dysfunction, reduced libido, and decreased sperm motility all of which can lead to infertility. Diabetes-induced oxidative stress can also cause sperm DNA damage, which might impact embryo quality and potentially reduce the likelihood of a successful conception.”
Diabetes patients may face challenges in conceiving, thus managing blood sugar levels is crucial as part of a reproductive plan. People with diabetes can manage some of the negative impacts on their fertility and sexual health by stabilising their blood sugar, a balanced diet, regularly exercise, and consulting an endocrinologist. Men may also benefit from improved sperm quality with antioxidant-rich foods and stable glucose levels. As diabetes may lead to infertility issues, men need to consult a fertility specialist during this period.
Diabetes can affect one’s sexual health. High blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage (neuropathy) and circulatory issues, impairing erectile function and reducing libido. Moreover, the emotional toll of dealing with diabetes-related complications can lead to anxiety or depression, further exacerbating sexual difficulties. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
