Hi Janis! I have a few questions for you, based on reader requests:

WHY DID YOU START WRITING AND SPEAKING ABOUT SEXUAL HEALTH AND DIABETES?

“People who have diabetes do best if they have the support of their partner or spouse. If there is tension or stress in the most intimate part of their relationship, it can affect all areas of their lives. More than half of men with diabetes will develop sexual complications. A little less than half of women will develop them also. Few people, if any, seek help and very few health professionals ask about the intimate lives of their patients. People need this information.”

ARE THERE?SEXUAL COMPLICATIONS SPECIFIC TO PEOPLE WITH DIABETES?

“The most common complication in men is erectile dysfunction (ED). Women may have vaginal dryness, feel pain during intercourse, and be less interested in sexual activity. Improved blood sugar control is helpful for both men and women, but the exact cause of women’s issues isn’t well-known. We do know that women view intimacy from a very emotional point – if they have a poor self-image because they have gained weight, are afraid of becoming pregnant, or feel emotionally disconnected from their partner, sexual problems may appear. “

WHAT TYPES OF TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR MEN AND WOMEN?

“Blood glucose control is number one. It is difficult to feel sexy if your blood glucose level is abnormal. Men can try many treatments including Viagra, Cialis or Levitra, penile vacuum pumps, constriction rings, suppositories, injections, penile sleeves, implants, and even counseling, if needed. Many women find vaginal lubricants helpful along with Kegel exercises, hormone therapy, emotional counseling, reliable birth control (to help remove the worry of unplanned pregnancy), and other actions that help connect them to their partners. “

HOW DOES YOUR FAMILY FEEL ABOUT THE FACT THAT YOU DISCUSS THIS TOPIC?

“My kids are so embarrassed! My son asked me to change my name and wear a blonde wig next time I appear on dLife to talk about sex.”

DO YOU HAVE ANY FINAL WORDS FOR OUR READERS?

“If you experience problems in your intimate relationship, seek help. Don’t wait for your doctor to ask about the problem. Unfortunately, many don’t usually ask about this important part of a patient’s life.”

THANKS FOR JOINING ME TODAY, JANIS!
“Thanks for inviting me!”