Diabetes In The Bedroom: Scarier Than Halloween?

Main Category: Diabetes
Also Included In: Erectile Dysfunction / Premature Ejaculation;  Sexual Health / STDs
Article Date: 06 Oct 2007 - 14:00 PDT

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

Halloween can be frightening, from the haunted houses to the trick-or-treating ghosts and goblins. But for some, there is something that is much scarier than Halloween: diabetes in the bedroom.

Sexual dysfunction is a diabetes complication for both men and women. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), fluctuation in hormone and blood glucose levels, depression, and nerve damage all contribute to sexual dysfunction. But lack of awareness from this lesser known diabetes side effect can lead to unnecessary anxiety, embarrassment, and fearfulness.

"Intimacy and diabetes is a scary topic to many," commented Ann L. Albright, PhD, RD, ADA's President, Health Care and Education. "Diabetes is a leading cause of sexual dysfunction. Many people are reluctant to talk to either their partner or doctor about it but the fact is that in many cases sexual dysfunction can be overcome successfully."

The American Diabetes Association provides a three-step approach to help alleviate fears associated with diabetes and sexual dysfunction:

- Start with yourself - You can lower the risk for sexual dysfunction or alleviate the condition if you already have it. Monitor blood glucose levels. Get plenty of rest. Enjoy a healthy meal plan. Incorporate physical activity throughout your day.

- Communicate with your partner - Communication can reduce anxiety associated with sexual dysfunction. Set time aside for honest discussion. Listen carefully. Be mindful of body language.

- Work with your health care team - Make regular visits. Set personal goals with their assistance. Write down questions ahead of time. Research some options before your visit. Inquire about counseling or medicines that can help.

"Because there are so many things to discuss during a routine visit, such as lab results and medication effectiveness, few health care team members ask about sexual concerns," commented Albright. "Drop a note to your provider ahead of time or ask for more time when scheduling your next appointment. There is no reason to allow your fear of discussing sexual dysfunction take over your life with diabetes."

The American Diabetes Association has published a new book, Sex and Diabetes: For Him and For Her. To order this book online visit http://store.diabetes.org.

About the American Diabetes Association

The American Diabetes Association is the nation's premier voluntary health organization supporting diabetes research, information and advocacy. The Association's mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. Founded in 1940, the Association provides services to hundreds of communities across the country. http://www.diabetes.org.