Hi James
Diabetes can possibly effect sexual health in many ways, though this needn't be the case and can be prevented. Briefly, as this is a large topic, the main ways it can effect you include...

1. Effect on nerves and arteries supplying blood supply to the penis causing erectile dysfunction.
2. Use of certain medications that often go with diabetes, including those for blood pressure and cholesterol can effect erectile function.
3. If your sugar is too high or too low, it may interfere with both desire and capacity to get an erection.
4. Depression can be present with diabetes, this effects libido and erectile function.

Notwithstanding these associations, keeping good dietary control, maintaining a healthy weight, a good exercise regime and maintaining control of sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol can all ensure a normal sexual response.

If you have any particular issues with your diabetes and its link with sexual function, don't hesitate to discuss this with your GP.

SASHA. For further information please consult SASHA’S website at www.sexualhealth.qw.co.za/dru. For referral to a professional in your vicinity, please send an email to helpline.sasha@gmail.com.