Impotence and Diabetes
... all cases of impotence in diabetic men is permanent. Psychogenic factors such as stress, marital problems, fatigue, or fear, can cause impotence that is almost always reversible. The rate of psychogenic impotence in diabetic men may be higher than that of the general population because of the known higher probability rates of irreversible impotence in diabetics. Men are not the only ones affected by diabetic sexual dysfunction. In 1987, a study carried out on 58 diabetic women clearly showed that diabetes had a pervasively negative impact on sexual desire, orgasmic capacity, lubrication, sexual satisfaction, and on relationships with their sexual partner in 50% of the subjects studied. Most of the women’s complaints were focused on issues related to inadequate enjoyment or interest. The best way for both male and female diabetics to prevent sexual dysfunction is to prevent the complication that out of control blood sugars cause. High blood sugar levels for extended periods of time can cause blood vessel and nerve damage all over the body and in all body systems. This includes the sexual organs and nerves. Damage to nerves and blood vessels in this area will hamper sexual performance and enjoyment. In men, this may include nerve and artery damage in the genital area, disrupting the blood flow necessary for an erection. High cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and obesity all are common in men with diabetes and may contribute to impotence. Smoking also increases the diabetics risk for impotence. In women diabetes-related nerve damage can cause vaginal dryness that makes intercourse uncomfortable. Nerve damage also can lead to loss of sensation in the vaginal area making orgasm difficult or impossible to achieve. If a male or female diabetic patient is having problems with sexual dysfunction or impotence, i...