Diabetes: Diabetes and Sexual Dysfunction: Understanding the Connection | Nagpur News

NAGPUR: Diabetes, a growing concern in India with rising cases of early onset, can throw a wrench into your sex life, no matter your gender. A recent discussion in Nagpur between leading sexologists and diabetes experts tackled this sensitive topic, highlighting the connection between poorly managed blood sugar and a decline in sexual function for both men and women.
The discussion was held as part of the ‘Hello Diabetes Academia (HDA) 2024: An International Conclave’. Six doctors across the country spoke on six sex-related subjects in context of diabetes.

Dr Sanjay Deshpande, a renowned sexologist, highlighted the link between diabetes and male sexual health. “It’s well-known that diabetes can decrease sexual desire and function. Both diabetes and a decrease in male sex hormones, sometimes referred to as ‘male menopause’, can start around 40 years of age. This can lead to diabetic men losing sexual interest and enjoyment earlier in life,” he said.
Dr Punit Saxena discussed evaluating erectile dysfunction in diabetic men. He explained that a proper evaluation for erectile dysfunction in diabetic men involves a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and potentially a psychological assessment to determine the underlying cause.
Dr Saurabh Mishra explained psychogenic erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients. “Psychogenic erectile dysfunction happens when emotional or mental factors like stress or anxiety make it difficult to get or maintain an erection, even if there’s no physical problem. Diabetes can contribute to these mental stresses and worsen the issue,” he said.
Dr Lotika Purohit addressed female sexual dysfunction and diabetes. “Women with diabetes are more prone to sexual problems due to nerve damage and blood flow issues. This can lead to vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable, decreased libido due to hormonal changes, and difficulty achieving orgasm. These issues can significantly impact a woman’s sexual life,” she said.
Dr Deepak Jumani, a renowned Mumbai sexologist, concluded the discussion by talking about treatment options. “It’s very common for diabetic patients to experience decreased sexual desire,” Dr Jumani said.
“There are effective treatments available, but you need to be open up about the problem and get checked by your doctor. There are both medical and surgical options to address erectile dysfunction,” he said.
Dr Sunil Gupta highlighted a crucial point. “As many as 40% of diabetic patients, both men and women, suffer from sexual problems, but they hesitate to discuss it with their doctor. If you discuss it with your diabetologist, you can get a solution for sure,” he said.