Diabetes isn't just about blood sugar; it also negatively impacts sexual life and fertility in both men and women. According to Dr. Shaili Sharma, women may experience irregular periods, problems with ovulation, and pregnancy. These problems can be avoided by controlling sugar levels, regular exercise, and managing weight.

When it comes to diabetes, our focus often revolves around sugar, insulin, and weight. But have you ever considered what all that extra sugar in your bloodstream is doing to your personal life? From erectile dysfunction (ED) in men to ovulation problems in women, diabetes can be a silent killer, damaging your sexual life and fertility.

If you're planning a family or want to regain your energy, the information in this article can be a lifesaver. What impact does diabetes have on sexual life and fertility? Dr. Shaili Sharma (Senior Consultant Gynecology and Associate Director, Cloudnine Hospital, Faridabad) explains.

Expert opinion

Experts say that diabetes isn't just a disease limited to high blood sugar levels; it impacts many vital systems in the body. Long-term, uncontrolled diabetes can also seriously impact reproductive and sexual health. Both men and women experience different, but significant, side effects, which are crucial to understand and manage in a timely manner.

Effect on women: There may be obstacles in becoming a mother

• Diabetes affects hormonal balance in women. Blood sugar imbalances can lead to irregular periods, affect ovulation, and make it difficult to conceive.
• Women with diabetes are also at higher risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can negatively impact fertility.
• Recurrent vaginal infections, especially fungal infections, can make sex life uncomfortable and painful.
• If diabetes is not controlled during pregnancy, it increases the risk for both mother and baby, including miscarriage or birth defects.
• Therefore, proper control of blood sugar and regular checkups are very important for women planning pregnancy.

Effect on men: Weakness and fatigue

• Diabetes directly impacts sexual health in men. Chronic high blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to erectile dysfunction.
• This can reduce the level of testosterone hormone, which leads to problems like decreased sexual desire and fatigue.
• High sugar can also negatively impact sperm count and quality, which affects male fertility.

The impact of diabetes on mental health

• Fear of illness and performance stress can lead to depression, which can lead to distance in relationships.

4 easy ways to prevent it

• Sugar Control – Always keep your sugar level under control through medication and diet.
• Regular exercise – A 30-minute walk or exercise every day increases blood circulation in the veins.
• Lose weight – Increasing weight is the biggest enemy of your fertility.
• Don't be shy—if you have any problems, talk to your doctor immediately. Timely treatment can save you from these serious complications.

To avoid these problems, it's crucial to keep diabetes under control.

PC: Herzindagi