Lynne Santiago MS, LMHC
Lynne is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Certified Sex Therapist with a private practice in Tampa, FL. Lynne received advanced, specialized training in sexual health and human sexuality from the Academy of Clinical Sexologists ... Read More About Lynne Santiago »
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Q. I have been diabetic for a few years now and even though I am on meds for it I have completely lost all desire for sex. Is this an area where a toy would help or do I need to approach this subject more with my doctor? Last time I asked they just shied away from the subject...what's a lady to do? Its been over 4 years since I’ve had sex and quite frankly think my husband loves me, but will eventually wander.. What to do?
You are not alone as far as your experience with your doctor. Many doctors, including gynecologists, shy away from issues related to sexual health unless it has to do with reproduction or infections. Talking about sex makes people queasy—even doctors!
A decrease in sexual desire and arousal can be caused by diabetes—for a number of reasons. First, there can be a decrease in blood flow to the genital area, sometimes even nerve damage. But the biggest culprit is depression and anxiety. Depression can be caused by the hormonal shifts brought on by the diabetes. Depression can also be the result of having to adjust your life around the management of a chronic illness. Often when a person is diagnosed with a chronic illness they have a period of depression as they move through acceptance of the illness and get adjusted to all the changes that the illness brings on. Body image issues and aging can have an effect on self esteem and can add to depression. Many people don’t even realize they are depressed unless it is at extreme levels. There are medications to alleviate depression but many actually decrease sexual desire and arousal. One antidepressant that can help is Wellbutrin as it is known to increase sexual desire.
I recommend that you talk with your doctor. Don’t let him or her push you off. Your sexual health is an important element in life experience and deserves attention!!
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