Can I have sex | To speak or not to speak | Measure glucose before sex | Training | Insulin pump | Glucose measurement after sex | Contraception | Extra source of carbohydrates | What to do with the pump | Lubricants | The risk of hypoglycemia | Discuss problems | Diabetic polyneuropathy | Psychologist | Experiments
Can I have sex
Of course, you can, you’re an ordinary person. The presence of diabetes is not a reason to deny yourself all the pleasures. At first, you often need to measure the level of glucose in the blood to understand how your body reacts to this type of exertion.
To speak or not to speak
Whether you are in a long relationship or have recently met someone – it is better not to make a secret out of your illness. For a new person, a short explanation will be enough about what diabetes is, why insulin is needed what to do in case of hypoglycemia. Do not be afraid to scare away the person you like, because you should not have someone in your life who is not able to accept you as a whole along with your disease.
Measure glucose before sex
Sex – can be intense physical activity. Any physical activity lowers blood glucose. If you do not want to interrupt such an exciting process for measuring blood glucose and stopping hypoglycemia, it is better to measure the glucose level before starting.
Training
Remember that preparatory measures before sex are the same as with any other physical activity. Reduce the dose of insulin for food two hours before sex, if blood glucose is low, you need to eat an additional amount of slow digesting carbohydrates.
Insulin pump
If you decide not to disconnect the pump, use the temporary basal function two hours before the start of sex.
Glucose measurement after sex
Measure glucose after sex. In some people, having sex leads to an increase in blood glucose, if the increase is significant, you may need an injection of ultra-short-acting insulin.
Contraception
Diabetes mellitus is not a contraindication to the use of any type of contraception. Discuss this issue with your healthcare provider. Always be prepared.
Extra source of carbohydrates
Always have an extra source of carbohydrates ready, such as juice. It is impossible to predict how much you will be carried away by the process and how long it will last; it is better to always have everything at hand.
What to do with the pump
What to do with the insuline pump? If you are using an insulin pump, discuss with your doctor what to do in advance. The pump can be left attached and placed on the underwear, for example, women can leave it attached to a garter located on the thigh. The pump can also be disconnected from the body and put in a safe place; the main thing is not to forget then attach it back. AND
Lubricants
Use lubricants. Studies have shown that women with type 1 diabetes often experience vaginal dryness, which leads to discomfort during intercourse. To solve this problem is quite simple, the pharmacy has a wide range of lubricants, and on a pack of condoms it is usually indicated with what types of lubricants they are compatible. It must be remembered that some types of lubricants may contain sugar.
The risk of hypoglycemia
Remember that during intercourse, glucose levels may decrease. A decrease in erection may be one of the symptoms of hypoglycemia. Extra carbohydrates will help to quickly solve the problem and continue to enjoy the process.
Discuss problems
Do not be afraid to discuss problems. If you have various problems of the genital area, do not be afraid to see a doctor. Many complications in people with type 1 diabetes can be prevented if treatment is started on time. And remember, this can happen in people without diabetes.
Diabetic polyneuropathy
Chronic complication of diabetes mellitus, which can lead to weakening of sexual function and the appearance of erectile dysfunction. A measure to prevent this condition is to maintain a satisfactory compensation for diabetes.
Psychologist
Consult a psychologist. Depression is one of the main causes of decreased libido. People with type 1 diabetes have a significant tendency to develop depression. Do not be afraid to consult a psychologist or psychotherapist for advice.
Experiments
Do not be afraid to study your body, this advice is relevant for all people. Try different things (poses, length of foreplay, etc.) and measure your glucose more often. Be like a sex scientist)