Dr. Jitesh J Bhatt

There are various complications and conditions, which may arise in case you have diabetes, and lowered libido is one of them. The presence of high blood sugar levels in the blood for a long period of time indicates diabetes. This is a metabolic disease characterized by an urge for frequent urination, increased appetite and increased thirst. Diabetes affects sexual functions of both men and women and causes disruption in sexual performance because of lowered libido. Stress control is also very important for improving sexual complications in diabetic patients.

How diabetes affects libido in women?
Diabetes is responsible for causing several sexual disorders in women. Experiencing reduced sex drive and failing to achieve an orgasm are some of the common problems in diabetic women. This takes place slowly and progressively, and occurs due to diabetic neuropathy and because of vascular diseases. Uncontrolled cases of diabetes reduce strength and stamina in a woman,as a result of which her sexual desire alsodecreases.Some women may develop chronic vaginal infections because of diabetes. This also interferes with sexual life. Several medicines which are taken by a woman for problems like heart diseases may affect libido. Reduced libido may occur from fears regarding pregnancy complications or the effect of diabetes on relationships and work.

According to research, women suffering from type 2 diabetes are more likely to experience reduced libido and other sexual complications. Sexual desire, reduced sexual satisfaction, lesser orgasms and difficulty with lubrication are common problems faced. Psychological aspects also play an important role in reduced libido as diabetic women may feel they are sexually less attractive.

How diabetes affects libido in men?
Diabetic men experience sexual complications and reduced libido as well. The dysfunctions develop slowly and are progressive,just as in women. Impotence may appear and go away at times. Less firm erections are experienced in the beginning and with time, the firmness and duration of an erection get reduced.

However, a diabetic man experiencing any form of sexual dysfunction will continue to have an interest in sex. This process is observed in a lot of diabetic men and is caused by diabetic neuropathy. Although this condition can be slowed down, the underlying tissue damage cannot be rectified. The symptoms should be reported at an early stage for proper and timely treatment. In many cases, impotence acts as an indicator or symptom of undiagnosed diabetes. Hence, the glucose levels need to be controlled properly.

For treatment of the sexual dysfunctions and reduced libido caused by diabetes, a patient must consult a doctor and let him know about the symptoms. This will enable the earliest treatment before the symptoms get worse.