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What may predispose to problems in sexual life?

Functional disorders of sexual life are very common and occur in most people at some stage of life. There can be a variety of reasons behind problems with sexual life.

Psychological reasons are common. For example, rush, stress, performance pressure, or difficulties in relationships can reflect on sexuality.

Lifestyle matters. Irregular life rhythm, overweight, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol use are risk factors for sexual problems.

Medications, including some mental health medications and antihypertensives, can also adversely affect sexual health.

In a person with diabetes, high blood sugar can cause fatigue and thus reduce sexual desire, as can fluctuations in blood sugar levels.

During insulin therapy, low blood sugar can surprise during sex and cause fear of these situations in the future. Handling the issue and preparing for sex like any physical exertion is appropriate.

Elevated blood sugar can cause mucous membrane dryness and predispose to infections in the intimate area, such as yeast infections. Prevention of dryness can be helped by various oils for the intimate area and, in the problems of menopause, estrogen-containing vaginal creams. Diabetes is not a contraindication to estrogen replacement therapy during menopause.

Possible vascular changes and nerve damage brought about by diabetes can cause erectile dysfunction or reduce sensory sensations in the genitals and thus also make it difficult to experience an orgasm.

Because sexual health is an important part of a person's overall wellbeing, it is advisable to discuss problems with sexual life readily with a healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause and to correct the situation. So don't stay alone with the issue!

Updated 8.11.2023