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Published on: 3/5/2025

Does Diabetes Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Yes, diabetes is a common cause of erectile dysfunction because high blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels needed for a strong erection.

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Explanation

Diabetes can affect many parts of your body, including the nerves and blood vessels essential for an erection. When blood sugar levels are high for a long time, it can harm these important areas, making it more difficult for blood to flow properly. This damage, called neuropathy and vascular damage, is a main reason why many men with diabetes experience erectile dysfunction. Diabetes is also linked with other health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease, which can further increase the chances of ED. It is important to understand that while diabetes is a major risk factor, not every man with diabetes will have erectile dysfunction. Managing diabetes through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and following a doctor’s advice can help reduce the risk. If you experience issues with erections and have diabetes, discussing your symptoms with a healthcare provider is a good idea. They can help develop a treatment plan that may include controlling blood sugar levels, making lifestyle changes, or other therapies to improve both your overall health and your sexual function.

(References)

  • Ledda A. Diabetes, hypertension and erectile dysfunction. Curr Med Res Opin. 2000;16 Suppl 1:s17-20. doi: 10.1185/0300799009117035. PMID: 11329816.

  • Bahar A, Elyasi F, Moosazadeh M, Afradi G, Kashi Z. Sexual dysfunction in men with type II diabetes. Caspian J Intern Med. 2020 May;11(3):295-303. doi: 10.22088/cjim.11.3.295. PMID: 32874437; PMCID: PMC7442469.

  • Defeudis G, Mazzilli R, Tenuta M, Rossini G, Zamponi V, Olana S, Faggiano A, Pozzilli P, Isidori AM, Gianfrilli D. Erectile dysfunction and diabetes: A melting pot of circumstances and treatments. Diabetes Metab Res Rev. 2022 Feb;38(2):e3494. doi: 10.1002/dmrr.3494. Epub 2021 Sep 21. PMID: 34514697; PMCID: PMC9286480.

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