Sexual and Urologic Problems of Diabetes (cont.)
Sexual Problems in Women With Diabetes
Decreased Vaginal Lubrication
Nerve
damage to cells that line the vagina can result in dryness, which in turn may
lead to discomfort during sexual intercourse. Discomfort is likely to decrease
sexual response or desire.
Decreased or Absent Sexual Response
Diabetes or other
diseases, blood pressure medications, certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs,
alcohol abuse, smoking, and psychological factors such as anxiety or depression
can all cause sexual problems in women. Gynecologic infections or conditions
relating to pregnancy or menopause can also contribute to decreased or absent sexual
response.
As many as 35 percent of women with diabetes may
experience decreased or absent sexual response. Decreased desire for sex,
inability to become or remain aroused, lack of sensation, or inability to reach orgasm can result.
Symptoms include
- decreased or total lack of interest in sexual relations
- decreased or no sensation in the
genital area
- constant or occasional inability to reach orgasm
- dryness in the vaginal area, leading to pain or discomfort during sexual
relations
If you experience sexual problems or notice a change in your sexual
response, talking to your doctor about it is the first step in getting help.
Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, any
gynecologic conditions or infections, the type and frequency of your sexual
problems, your medications, your smoking and drinking habits, and other health
conditions. A physical exam and laboratory tests may also help pinpoint causes.
Your blood glucose control will be discussed. The doctor may ask whether you
might be pregnant or have
reached menopause and whether you are depressed or have recently experienced
upsetting changes in your life.
Prescription or over-the-counter vaginal lubricant creams may be useful for
women experiencing dryness.
Techniques to treat decreased sexual response include changes in position and
stimulation during sexual relations. Psychological counseling, as well as Kegel
exercises to strengthen the muscles that hold urine in the bladder, may be
helpful. Studies of drug treatments are under way.
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