The Physical Effects of Diabetes on Sexuality in Women

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic illness that affects all aspects of human sexuality. As an integral part of a woman's day-to-day life, sexuality may be adversely affected by diabetes in ways that are detrimental to her total health, her relationships, and her self-esteem. This descriptive study was conducted to describe the physical effects of diabetes on sexuality in women with insulin-dependent diabetes or non-insulin-dependent diabetes. A sample of 20 women were interviewed and data were analyzed to identify themes. Problems reported by subjects affecting sexuality were fatigue, changes in perimenstrual blood glucose control, vaginitis, decreased sexual desire, decreased vaginal lubrication, and an increased time to reach orgasm. Continued research is recommended to further explore these findings.