If you watch a lot of TV commercials, or only listen to mainstream commentary, you would think the diabetic side effect of sexual dysfunction only troubles men. That couldn’t be further from the truth. The dialogue needs to be expanded to include the diabetic side effect of sexual dysfunction in women as well.

The obvious signs of sexual dysfunction aren’t as easily seen or observed as they are in men, but about half of women with diabetes report some sexual problem that robs them of the sexual pleasure they might otherwise experience if they weren’t diabetic. The symptoms are a little more subtle, but women need to know these are real problems, and the frustration they feel as a result of this diabetic side effect is shared by many other women. Let’s take a look at some of the sexual problems women with diabetes experience, and what they might do to alleviate the problems.

 

Vaginal Dryness

 

This is a common problem for post-menopausal women, but as a diabetic side effect, it affects women at younger ages, often making sex painful, uncomfortable, and less pleasurable. Low blood flow to the vagina contributes to vaginal dryness. And neuropathy (nerve damage) can reduce the sensitivity of the area, making orgasm rare or impossible. Controlling the blood sugar levels closely will reduce the chances of vaginal dryness affecting the sex life, but may not completely eliminate this diabetic side effect.

Hormone replacement therapy can be helpful, but is not without risk. First, try an over-the counter vaginal lubricant. If that doesn’t help, prescription suppositories are available, as are estrogen rings and hormone balance treatment. Estrogen will increase vaginal secretion.

 

Low Libido and Arousal

 

Low libido is probably the biggest diabetic side effect women complain about when it comes to sexual dysfunction. Unfortunately, the experts aren’t quite sure why.

One theory is that low testosterone is responsible for low desire in diabetic women. Although usually thought of as a male hormone, women need it too. It helps maintain muscle tone, bone strength, and libido.

But even if the interest is raised, arousal can become the next hurdle. Hormonal changes and nerve damage could be to blame, but so could worry and stress. It has often been said that the biggest sex organ is the brain, and stress certainly affects the brain. Diabetes is a stressful condition, so some time for relaxation may help to get women into the moment.

Talking to your partner can really help here. Take more time for foreplay. Ask ahead of the time for your partner to be more patient. And although most women may be reluctant to talk about it, masturbation can help a woman to get to know her own body, learning how it responds to different touches and getting the woman to relax. Later, this information can be discussed with your partner. This diabetic side effect will take understanding from your partner, and who knows – he may enjoy helping you learn about your body in this manner. Sex is supposed to be fun. Bring back the fun and romance, and sexual dysfunction may be a diabetic side effect you can overcome easily.