Can diabetes affect sex drive in a female?
While it is well known that diabetes affects sexual function
in men, very little is known about how diabetes affects sexual function in
women. For the most part, it has always been assumed that diabetic women do not
suffer from decreased libido like men.
Now a study from the University of California reveals that
sexual activity in diabetic women is also profoundly affected. Not only do
middle aged women with diabetes have low levels of sexual desire they also have
less satisfaction and decreased frequency of sexual activity. In addition,
women who are treated with insulin tend to have more difficulty with
lubrication than those diabetics who do not use insulin.
The study also observed that end organ complications of
diabetes was also associated with decreased sexual function. Women with
diabetes and heart disease, kidney failure and/or peripheral neuropathy had
lower sexual desire and decreased sexual satisfaction.
As far as treatments are concerned that can increase libido, there is nothing for
women. Viagra is used by men
diabetic men and anecdotal reports indicate that some diabetic women also find
it useful. Some women have found low dose testosterone useful to boost the sex
drive. Best advice for diabetic women- speak to your medical doctor before
trying out any medications to boost your sex life.
