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The Question
09/24/09 12:54 AM

"24 yr old type 1 female in a loving relationship with a very attractive man. I cant get my body to catch up w/ my mind for sex, can any meds help?"
Asked By: pineapplepezz  
Category: Sexual Issues

Background Info Hide
type 1, age 24, diagnosed at age 17, last a1c was 8, exercise 6-7 days a week for 30-120 min. did not experience this issue until about a yr ago. did experience severe neuropathy 2 yrs ago.

Expert Answers (1)

11/16/09 03:26 PM

Dear PineApplePezz:
Please accept my apology for the tardiness of getting back with you, regarding such a serious issue as diabetes and sexual issues.

Low interest or low libido and arousal are the biggest dilemma facing women with diabetes. Although, not frequently discusses with our personal PCP/Endo/OB/GYN, sex should be a portion of life enjoyed and expresses as you state as "part of a loving relationship."

The first step to feeling sexy is better blood sugar, an A1c of<7% is the recommend, continue with your exercise and compliment with healthy eating and good sleep habits. The diagnosis of diabetes increases your risk for sexual dysfunction, approx. 50% of women with diabetes report some sort of sexual problem. Identify the 'whys' may require some due-diligence on your part.

  • Can it be due to low self-esteem, wearing the pump and all, the potential of the lows and highs (?), snacks at the bedside table, the pump can be removed for approx 1-1.5 hr., (consult with your Endo before doing to be safe). Feeling good about yourself is critical for sexual pleasure. The experts suggest the brain is the most erotic organ, needed the emotional stimulation of romance and foreplay, try taking a bath or shower before and after sex to keep yourself as clean as possible. Consider it a part of foreplay. Relaxing and getting into the moment is important.
  • Is it nerve damage, hormonal changes, or stress and worry that are to blame?
  • Could be vaginal dryness, potentially due to low blood flow to the vagina, or nerve damage (?) Have you tried a K-Y® Jelly and other over-the-counter vaginal lubricants, or Rx. meds. There are prescription suppositories, estrogen rings or hormone balance treatments.
  • When the glucose levels are out of range you are more susceptible to infections. For recurrent infections, talk to your doctor about oral prescription medications such as Diflucan.
  • Risks of pregnancy, some oral contraceptives contain high doses of hormones. Sue
    • Answered By: Susan Throop
    Accreditations: RD, CDE, MA
    Sources Show

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