Diabetes is often considered as deadly as cancer. It is a disease that requires lifestyle changes and diet modification. It affects almost all body systems. Neurovascular damages is one of the most common effects; this means that diabetes will affect the nerves and blood supply of the body. While Type 1 diabetes makes its presence felt much earlier and is hereditary quite often. It is more likely to have the symptoms early on and need to learn to manage them. Type 2 appears later in life with age and cumulative stress. The effects of diabetes are related to the duration of the disease. People with Type 2 makes its appearance later, but needs good monitoring for the effects to not surface or prolong the severity of symptoms. As we all know, all body systems are affected by diabetes, sexual health is no exception, and Diabetes decreases blood supply and impacts the nerves in the genitals, thus causing a series of issues right from reduced libido and erectile dysfunction in males to vaginal dryness and painful coitus (petunia) in females.

Reduced sexual desire occurs in women due to testosterone levels. Vaginal dryness is very common in females with diabetes, and therefore, a definite decline in the urge. The above mentioned neurovascular damage also prevents women from reaching a good climax, as the nerve supply is affected. Diabetes also increases the predisposition to urinary tract infections, which can lead to painful sexual experience due to additional vaginal dryness and itching. People with diabetes know that making small lifestyle changes can go a long way in terms of onset of symptoms in leading of a normal life. Modification in diet and lifestyle include healthy eating, reduced stress and exercising are very useful. It is also very important to talk to your doctor about how your sexual health has changed with diabetes as it is a sensitive and private topic. If you are concerned about it, the please do not hesitate to seek help.