Breaking the Stigma: Addressing Sexual Dysfunction and Intimacy in Diabetes
摘要
Living with diabetes brings many physical and emotional challenges, and one of the most overlooked challenges is its impact on sexual health and intimacy. People with diabetes both men and women often experience sexual problems like erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, decreased desire for mating, painful intercourse and loss of libido. These issues don’t just affect the body; they also take a toll on emotional well-being and relationships. Because of stigma and embarrassment, many people suffer in silence and thinking they are alone in this struggle. This chapter shines a light on the connection between diabetes and sexual dysfunction by explaining how changes in blood glucose levels, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, and mental stress, it focuses on the emotional side of living with these problems. Open conversations with partners and healthcare providers are key to breaking the silence and finding support. This chapter also focuses on a kinder, more understanding approach from both society and the medical community. Sexual health should be a normal part of diabetes care, not something hidden away. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and providing proper treatment along with counselling, we can help people with diabetes to increase their quality adjusted life years. This chapter is an alarming call to break the stigma, emphasizing that intimacy, trust, and connection remain vital regardless of the health challenges someone may face in diabetes.