Diabetes affects many aspects of living including one of the most intimate aspects of our life - sex. Sexual intimacy is associated with positive emotional and physical benefits.

Diabetes itself can mistakenly influence sexuality in both men and women in multiple ways. Sexual bonding induces the release of endorphins, which impart a deep sense of relaxation, feelings of well-being and intimacy. The root of the problems with desire, arousal and sexual function in people with diabetes could be:

• Fatigue from high blood glucose levels

• Loss of desire as a result of depression, a more common issue in diabetes

• Fear of having a low blood glucose reaction during sex

• Decreased lubrication or frequent yeast infections in women

• Erectile dysfunction in men

• Male and female genital nerve damage (neuropathy)

Neuropathy is known to cause sexual dysfunction in up to 75% of men and up to 35% of women with diabetes. Damage to the nerves in the sexual regions of the body can reduce or interfere with the ability to feel sexual sensations leading to difficulty with arousal and orgasm. Hence, Glucose control is essential for preventing nerve damage since once nerves have been destroyed, sensation is rarely recovered.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the unspoken issues for men with diabetes. Sadly, when it comes to ED, "don’t ask, don’t tell" seems to be the commonly accepted way of interaction between men and their healthcare providers. This is unfortunate since up to 60% of men with diabetes can successfully manage ED with the use of prescription medications including Viagra, Cialis or Levitra. Other therapies are also available for men who do not respond to these medications.

Certain lifestyle factors can exacerbate sexual function. Smoking, alcohol, high cholesterol, circulatory problems and high blood pressure are all problematic to sexual health. Surprisingly, proper diet and exercise can play an important role in treating and preventing sexual problems. Exercise, eating a diet lower in saturated and trans-fats and eating good quality carbohydrates in moderation can help improve circulation and consequently improve blood flow to the sexual organs.

Many different problems related to diabetes come together to cause erectile dysfunction.35% to 75% of men with diabetes have developed some degree of Erectile Dysfunction. The causes of ED in men with Diabetes are complex and can involve impairments in nerve, blood vessel and muscle function. Diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves that provide erection. Men suffering from Diabetes and are not getting proper erection can take oral medicines like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra.