Navigating Intimacy with Diabetes in Men: Pitfalls and Promises

Written By CANDICE ROBERTSON, MSN,FNP,APRN-C

When it comes to sexual function and diabetes, it's often a balancing act between the natural joy of intimacy and the challenges posed by this chronic condition. The good news is, with the right care and understanding, men with diabetes can still enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life. Let's explore the pitfalls and potential solutions to ensure that diabetes doesn't stand in the way of a fulfilling relationship.

 

Pitfall 1:

  • Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Erectile dysfunction, or ED, is a common issue for men with diabetes. This occurs when there is damage to the nerves or blood vessels that control erections, which can be a result of high blood sugar levels over time.

Solutions:

  • Communication: Talk to your partner about any difficulties you're experiencing. Communication can help relieve anxiety and stress.

  • Medication: There are several medications available that can help manage ED, including PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra or Cialis. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any these medications.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing blood sugar levels can all contribute to overall better health and sexual function. There are continuous monitoring devices out there that can help you stay on top of blood sugar levels.


Pitfall 2:

  • Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia: Both low and high blood sugar levels can affect sexual function. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can lead to fatigue, weakness, and decreased libido. On the other hand, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) can cause dehydration, nerve damage, and reduced sensation.

Solutions:

  • Monitor blood sugar levels closely, especially before engaging in sexual activity.

  • Keep a quick source of sugar on hand in case of hypoglycemia. Foreplay with gels and lotions that are sweetened can give you a boost if needed.

  • Stay hydrated to avoid the complications of high blood sugar. Half your body weight in ounces up to 120 ounces is the suggested guide for how much water you should drink.  Also getting in the habit of keeping a glass of water at the bed side can help replace fluid loss after intimacy.


Pitfall 3:

  • Psychological Effects: The stress and anxiety of managing diabetes can take a toll on mental health, including sexual health. Fear of hypoglycemia during intimacy or concerns about body image can lead to performance anxiety or reduced libido.

Solutions:

  • Practice mindfulness techniques or stress-reduction strategies.

  • Talk to a therapist or counselor if anxiety or depression is impacting your relationship or sexual health.

  • Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and fears. Your partner will appreciate you for sharing.


In conclusion, while diabetes can present challenges to sexual function, there are many ways to address these issues and maintain a fulfilling sex life. Open communication, managing blood sugar levels, and seeking appropriate medical care can help overcome the pitfalls and enhance the intimacy between partners.

 

References:

  1. American Diabetes Association. (n.d.). Sexual health and diabetes. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org/sexual-health

  2. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Diabetes and sexual dysfunction: current perspectives. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4229557/

  3. Diabetes UK. (n.d.). Diabetes and sex. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/life-with-diabetes/sex-life

  4. International Diabetes Federation. (n.d.). Diabetes and sexuality: a handbook for healthcare professionals. Retrieved from https://www.idf.org/component/attachments/?task=download&id=1348:Diabetes%20and%20Sexuality%20Booklet


CANDICE ROBERTSON, MSN,FNP,APRN-C
CANDICE ROBERTSON, MSN,FNP,APRN-C

Co-Owner of The NP Xperience | Trained in Functional Medicine

Mrs. Candice Robertson knew she wanted to help others heal and initially studied and graduated with a BA in Psychology from West Virginia University in 1998. Growing up she watched her grandmother and mother juice, cook with raw herbs from the garden, and use teas for healing illnesses in the body. Candice bought into westernized medicine thinking “there is a pill for that," while still participating reluctantly in the homeopathic methods of her family.

Following in her mother’s footsteps she went back to school to become a nurse graduating from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 2002 with honors. Fully indoctrinated in conventional medicine, worked as an RN on a Med-Surg./ Dialysis Unit, in the Cardiac Cath and Electrophysiology Lab, and then several Operating Rooms and Post Anesthesia Care Units (in-Hospital and Ambulatory) where she realized people wanted more and asked for more. In 2008, Candice launched, Pure Mahada, a natural skin care line for eczema and dry skin to help her eldest son and soon others, but that was still “downstream treatment.” Working on the surface was not enough. She asked herself, how could she help from the inside out, not just skin deep and not just following orders.

Candice went back to school and realized while in graduate school the focus was not placed heavily on nutrition and lifestyle change, but rather treating one problem/ disease at a time. This method caused other problems. Exploring homeopathic medicine and later Functional Medicine brought her family's practices full circle. Closer to Nature is better. It all started to come together. Candice realized that she needed both conventional medicine and functional medicine to really make a difference in patient outcomes. After graduating with honors from Simmons College (now Simmons University) in 2016 with a Master’s in Nursing she started incorporating Functional Medicine and the “root cause” of illnesses in her treatment of patients. Candice has over 20 years of nursing experience. She is Board Certified by AANP, DOT Certified in NJ , continues to educate herself in Functional Medicine at IFM, and believes starting a healthy lifestyle young is important. She will continue to make home-made skin care products for her family and clientele and will make it available in the office.

She believes that in order for primary care providers to meet the needs of the community they serve, adaptability is key, prevention is a necessity, and compassion is needed for the body to heal. Her vision of how patients should be treated can now be a reality under one roof.

Candice’s Achilles heel is sweets. “I have to have it”, but “I have learned to stop the yearly weight increase with intermittent fasting, portion control, healthier eating, and listening to my body.”

Candice is happily married to her husband/ co-owner of The NP Xperience, Sean Robertson, has 2 handsome sons, and her wonderful mother helping to keep her work-life balanced. She loves DIY projects, home décor, gardening, drawing, playing handball/racquetball, and walking her dog.

https://www.thenpxperience.com/