It is estimated that 75% of men and 35% of women with diabetes experience some sexual problems due to diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) to the nerves that stimulate normal sexual response.

Almost as soon as men get diagnosed with diabetes, they begin hearing dire warnings about their high risk of erectile dysfunction (ED)- the inability to achieve or maintain a satisfactory erection for sexual intercourse. Diabetes may, indeed, impair erection but ED is by no means inevitable. There are two causes of erection impairment in diabetic men: cardiovascular complications (atherosclerosis) and nerve damage (neuropathy).

Diabetes accelerates arterial clogging, which reduces erection-producing blood flow into the penis. And neuropathy damages the nerves involved in erection.

Despite the sexual problems you may be experiencing, keep communicating with your partner about your concerns or meet with a relationship counselor to learn how to communicate more effectively and resolve any issues that may be standing in the way of enjoying a healthy sexual relationship.