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Sexual Health and Diabetes: 5 ways diabetes can impact your sex life

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels. This can lead to various health complications if not managed properly. In terms of sexual and reproductive health, uncontrolled diabetes can indeed increase the risk of issues such as erectile dysfunction in men and complications during pregnancy for women.

  1. Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is more prevalent in men with diabetes due to various factors. Diabetes can lead to damage to blood vessels and nerves, which are essential for achieving and maintaining an erection. Additionally, conditions like obesity, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, which are often associated with diabetes can further increase the risk of ED.

  1. Low testosterone

High blood sugar levels in men with diabetes can disrupt the normal release of luteinizing hormone, which is essential for the production of testosterone in the testicles. When testosterone levels drop, it can lead to a range of symptoms, including low energy levels, mood swings, irritability, poor concentration, reduced muscle strength, and low sex drive.

  1. Low sex drive

Diabetes can lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in men, which can result in a lower sex drive or libido. Additionally, diabetes can contribute to other sexual health issues, such as difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection, which can further impact one’s interest in sexual activity.

  1. Balanitis

If urine gets trapped under the foreskin in uncircumcised men, it can potentially lead to a condition called balanitis, which is an inflammation or infection of the head of the penis and the foreskin.

  1. Retrograde ejaculation

Diabetes can affect the nerves and muscles that control the neck of the bladder. When these muscles don’t function properly it can lead to a condition called retrograde ejaculation, where semen flows backward into the bladder instead of being ejaculated out of the body.

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