Erectile dysfunction

Emotional impact

The physical impact of living with diabetes is well reported, but the psychological aspect is not always recognised.

Diabetes can have a huge emotional impact, especially around diagnosis, starting insulin or due to related complications such as erectile dysfunction (ED).

Your emotions

For some people living with diabetes, feelings of low self-esteem, inadequacy, stress or anxiety may start to emerge. This can turn into depression, loss of sexual interest, guilt and a wide range of other emotions. Such emotions can lead onto relationship difficulties and sexual problems.

Although ED can be caused by physical factors or taking certain medicines, one in four men with diabetes experience erectile dysfunction due to emotional reasons.

Many people feel that their diabetes has taken over their lives. You may feel set apart from your friends and family because of the new demands placed on your life.

Family and friends may also treat you differently because of your diabetes. You may start to feel isolated and, in turn, switch off from your partner.

Communicating to your partner is vital

Try explaining your worries - whether linked to your relationship, work pressure or health concerns - to your partner. Talking as a team may help solve some of the problems.

Talk to your diabetes team

Let your doctor or nurse know how you are feeling. If you are anxious, embarrassed or don’t know which words to use, write down what you need to say and take it with you. This can help both the healthcare professional and you to get the consultation underway. Your doctor will be able to refer you, if necessary, to someone trained in sex therapy.

Check out your lifestyle

  • Cut down on alcohol - remember the term ‘Brewer’s droop’? It is true.
  • Give up smoking -  nicotine stops the blood flow to the area of the penis associated with erections.
  • Exercise regularly and eat healthily - this will improve your blood glucose control and your general feelings of well being.

Make time to relax

Make time to relax and have fun, both alone and also as a couple. Remember that stress plays an important part in ED. Finally, take time to enjoy being sensual as a couple. Make time for a relaxing massage together, for example, without any expectations of sex.

 

You might want to contact the Diabetes UK Careline - a helpline run by trained counsellors ready to listen.