Most people who struggle with their weight are probably well aware of the correlation between obesity and diabetes. It's a slippery slope, the more overweight and out-of-shape one becomes, the better their chances for Type 2 Diabetes. The complications caused by diabetes like heart disease, retinopathy (leading to vision loss), kidney disease and nerve damage are openly discussed with doctors and in support groups.
What's left unsaid -- is what most people are thinking about but rarely talking about -- with their doctors: sex. Yes, diabetes can have a dramatic effect on a person's sex life and relationships. Beyond the extra pounds making locating the naughty bits a bit difficult, there are a slew of physical and mental problems that can arise.
Obesity can make it difficult locating the libido, but with diabetes also comes a higher risk of infections, nerve damage which decreases pleasure and sensation, limited mobility, erectile dysfunction, feeling unattractive due to excess weight, being tired from high glucose levels, and vaginal dryness, according to the American Diabetes Association.
"Being overweight causes anxiety and prevents you from enjoying your sexuality and sex life. Sex may not be enjoyable merely from the physical difficulty of having sex when you're obese, or it could be related to nerve damage," says nutritionist Susan Burke. However, she wants everyone to take note that much of the pleasure from sex comes from between your ears -- not just between your legs.
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