Erectile Dysfunction and Diabetes: What’s the Deal?

Why does diabetes affect erections?

First, a quick refresher: getting and keeping an erection involves the brain, hormones, blood vessels, muscles, and nerves all working together. When you have diabetes, high blood glucose over time can damage blood vessels and nerves, including the ones that control blood flow to the penis. Without proper blood flow, getting an erection becomes difficult. On top of that, diabetes can lower testosterone and contributes to stress, anxiety, and depression - all of which can make ED worse.

Spotting the symptoms

ED isn’t just about not being able to get an erection. It can also mean:

• Trouble getting an erection consistently
• Difficulty keeping an erection during sex
• Lower sex drive or interest in sex

If this sounds familiar and you have diabetes, you’re not alone - and there are things you can do about it.

Treatment options

First things first: don’t ignore it. ED can be a sign that your blood glucose levels aren’t consistently within your target range and may require a diabetes management review. Talk to your doctor, even if it’s uncomfortable. They are professionals who can either start you on treatment or refer you to someone who can help.

Here are some common treatment options:

1. Improved blood glucose levels
   Managing your diabetes can improve ED symptoms. That means keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol within target levels.
2. Lifestyle changes
   Exercise, eating a healthier diet, losing weight, quitting smoking, and cutting back on alcohol can also help improve blood flow and overall health - including sexual health.
3. Oral medications
   You’ve probably heard of Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and other ED meds. These can work for many men with diabetes, although not everyone responds the same way. It is important to check with your doctor first though as some heart medications can interact with ED drugs.
4. Therapy
   If stress, anxiety, or depression are playing a role, talking to a mental health professional such as a psychologist or couples counsellor can make a big difference.
5. Other options
   If pills don’t work, there are other treatment options available such as vacuum erection devices, penile injections, or even implants in more severe cases.

Bottom line

Erectile dysfunction is super common in men with diabetes, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your sex life. It’s a medical issue, not a failing or something to be ashamed of . Getting help might feel awkward at first, but it can seriously improve your quality of life - and your health in general.

So, if you’ve been dealing with ED and you’ve got diabetes, it’s time to stop suffering in silence and talk t to your doctor.

Below are some useful links.

• To find a psychologist: Australian Psychological Society
• https://Healthymale.org.au
• https://healthymale.org.au/mens-health/erectile-dysfunction