Diabetes Standards of Care and Resources for Clinicians and Educators

Sexual Health

Changes in sexual function are common health problems as people age. Having diabetes can mean early onset and increased severity of these problems. Sexual dysfunction for people with diabetes can be due to autonomic neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, hormone deficiencies, side effects of medications, smoking, alcohol abuse, and psychological concerns such as depression, stress, and anxiety, or a combination of these. Many patients will welcome the opportunity to address these important quality of life issues during diabetes care visits.