I have written previously about common sexual issues and dysfunctions among both diabetic women and men, but wanted to touch on another aspect of the horizontal hokie pokie? How does sexual relations specifically affect your blood sugars and emotions during the act?

“Some women put out an adrenaline response when they are having sexual intercourse. This is similar to low blood sugar-a loss of control, sweating and an erratic heartbeat,” says Walko. Some women question if they are experiencing a hypoglycemic episode or an orgasm. She suggests women check their blood sugar levels before having sex to clear up any misinterpretations.

Does this mean you have to put the brakes on in the throws of passion and prick your finger? Heck no! But you need to be in tune to what changes could be occurring in your body. So go ahead and enjoy yourself! But know that you need to be cognitive of your bodies reaction. Another consideration to help combat low blood sugars after nookie time…

“…should adjust her insulin downward in anticipation of the evening, or if the evening happens to be on the spur of the moment, she should compensate by eating something afterward,”

Now, I don’t know about you but I certainly don’t plan for sex throughout the day. It is usually something spontaneous. Well as spontaneous as it can be with having to shut and lock the doors and barricade them so little feet don’t come charging in during the ol’ “together time”. That is another story though. But I do know on a personal level that my blood sugars drop after sex and I make sure a little kitchen run is part of our “basking in the glow” routine.

What is the most important aspect of sex and diabetes? Communication. Sex is something that we share with that special someone. How can we enjoy it if we can’t let our bodies go? We all know that sex is both physical and emotional. It is so important to allow your partner to have their concerns and worries, and no matter how trivial they are to you, remember they are very real to them!

via Diabetes Health

Post from: Blisstree

Diabetes Affects The Emotional And Physical Aspects Of Sex

Did you know high blood sugars can directly effect your sex life? That’s right Mr. Macho, I’m talking to you. It is something I have personally never put more than 2 minutes of thought into. But because of being diabetic, my va va va voom can be, well let’s just say, not too voom. Oh heavens!

So come on men, if I can talk about this openly, being a young women and all, you can stand to read on. I was pleased to find more than ample research and articles on this otherwise taboo topic. Not so much taboo for my generation, but for the ones before me.

Let’s get the sexual problems out in the open and learn how to keep the “pep in our step”!! Wink,wink.

Long-term diabetes can cause damage to the nervous system, which is involved in the complete process of erection.

The most common sexual disorder linked to diabetes among men is erectile dysfunction (ED). Blood vessel’s are damaged by high blood sugars not allowing the blood flow to be optimal at the essential areas, catch my drift. Also, impotence can be a problem for some men due to nerve damage or neuropathies. Doctors are more than happy to offer solutions to these embarrassing, but very real complications associated with diabetes. But you can’t get help if you don’t bring it up! Don’t try to be Mr. Macho, let yourself live life to the best.

While sex seems to be everywhere –television, billboards and advertising–Americans are still reluctant to go to the doctor to talk about a sexual problem or issue. However, many people, whether they have diabetes or not, have sexual problems. The Journal of the American Medical Association reported in February of 1999 about a survey conducted of 1,749 women and 1,410 men aged 18 to 59.

You men also have to be careful while basking in the afterglow of your “together” time.

If you use insulin, be aware that sometimes sex can cause low blood sugar levels. Test your blood sugar before having sex or consider eating just before or right afterwards as you would for exercise. Also you may want to have a snack before going to sleep at night.

Like I mentioned above, not many are excited or comfortable talking about their sexual problems with their doctors, but it is the only way to get help. Consider visiting the doctor with your partner or spouse if it would relieve some anxiety and angst. After all, it does take two to tango!

via Net Doctor.co.UK and Life Clinic

Post from: Blisstree

Sexual Dysfunction Among Diabetic Men