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A diabetes expert shares some advice.

Erectile dysfunction is a common complication. Can I prevent it?

It sounds like you think that erectile dysfunction (ED) is inevitable, but that’s not the case. Though ED is more common in men over 50, with or without diabetes, it doesn’t have to be part of your life. If you keep your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol/triglyceride levels in a healthy range, you are less likely to develop ED. You also reduce your risk if you limit your alcohol intake to two drinks or fewer per day, don’t smoke, and treat a low testosterone level, if you have one. 

Invite your partner to join your efforts to be as healthy as possible, because they will benefit, too. And even if you do develop ED, there are many options that can help you continue to enjoy an active sex life. Your diabetes care team will be able to offer advice.

Published on February 20, 2015.

— Advice by Janis Roszler, MS, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND. Janis is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, and a marriage and family therapist. Among her many books are Sex and Diabetes and The Secrets of Living and Loving with Diabetes.