6 Ways to Support a Spouse With Diabetes
Experts and people who've been there offer tips on how to support a partner with diabetes -- without nagging.
She cautions women: ''It's not personal. It doesn't happen because you're no longer attractive. It's not a rejection of you. At the same time, it's one of the most devastating things in diabetes that can happen for men.''
For women with diabetes, increased vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and vaginal infections can put a damper on sex, Funnell says. So can fatigue. ''They're just worn out,'' she says. ''They don't feel very sexy. They're managing diabetes. And if their blood sugar is high, they don't have the energy.''
Also, research shows that women with diabetes believe they receive less spousal support than men with diabetes, Funnell says. That can breed resentment. ''For women, a lot of desire and satisfaction come from the mental romance of it all.''
When diabetes interferes with physical closeness, couples need to discuss it, Funnell says. Counseling may help. They should also consult a doctor about treatments for erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, low libido, and other medical problems.
6 Ways to Support a Spouse With Diabetes
Experts and people who've been there offer tips on how to support a partner with diabetes -- without nagging.
Diabetes Support Tip No. 6. If Sexual Problems Arise, Talk About It continued...
She cautions women: ''It's not personal. It doesn't happen because you're no longer attractive. It's not a rejection of you. At the same time, it's one of the most devastating things in diabetes that can happen for men.''
For women with diabetes, increased vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and vaginal infections can put a damper on sex, Funnell says. So can fatigue. ''They're just worn out,'' she says. ''They don't feel very sexy. They're managing diabetes. And if their blood sugar is high, they don't have the energy.''
Also, research shows that women with diabetes believe they receive less spousal support than men with diabetes, Funnell says. That can breed resentment. ''For women, a lot of desire and satisfaction come from the mental romance of it all.''
When diabetes interferes with physical closeness, couples need to discuss it, Funnell says. Counseling may help. They should also consult a doctor about treatments for erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, low libido, and other medical problems.