According to the American Diabetes Association, both male and female diabetics report sexual dysfunction and accompanying urological problems. The topic of sexual dysfunction is difficult to talk about, but several treatment options are available through a medical doctor. Before trying any over-the-counter or herbal supplements, it is important to speak with your physician first. Some may have contraindications with existing medications or otherwise exacerbate sensitive medical conditions.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which the male is unable to have or maintain a penile erection. The American Diabetes Association defines the underlying causes of ED in diabetics as the result of blood vessel and nerve damage to the penis-also referred to as neuropathy. The National Medical Association suggests that ED is a fairly common issue after the first 10 years with the disease. Approximately 50 percent of all diabetic men at this stage have experienced ED, yet show an encouraging 90 percent satisfaction rate with surgery.
Retrograde Ejaculation
Retrograde ejaculation is a condition in which the male produces semen, but it is misdirected during ejaculation. According to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse, the semen is released upon ejaculation yet instead of releasing normally through the penis, it is released into the bladder and is expelled through the urine. This occurs when the sphincters in the penis do not work correctly and the blood vessels do not contract due to damage by diabetic neuropathy. Many men with retrograde ejaculation also experience fertility problems.
Female Sexual Dysfunction
In females, reports of sexual dysfunction vary between a lack of vaginal lubrication and arousal and the painful presence of pelvic autonomic neuropathy. The Joslin Diabetes Center defines female sexual dysfunction as the response to nerve damage from diabetes and loss of sensation. This can represent symptoms of vaginal dryness, incontinence, painful intercourse and high rates of urinary tract infections which can make orgasm difficult or impossible to achieve.
