The Role of Diabetes Mellitus in Sexual and Reproductive Health: An Overview of Pathogenesis, Evaluation, and Management

Abstract

Background: Uncontrolled or long-term diabetes mellitus is conducive to vascular and oxidative stress disturbances that impede several physiological systems, which may in turn elicit psychological symptoms.

Objective: We assess the sexual and hormonal complications of diabetes mellitus that impair reproductive function in males and females.

Methods: A comprehensive MEDLINE® search was guided using key words relevant to diabetes mellitus and reproductive health.

Results: We reviewed the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, imaging modalities, pharmacological treatment, and intervention options for each diabetic reproductive complication in males and females. Erectile dysfunction secondary to angiopathic, neuropathic, and myopathic damage is a leading complication of diabetes in males. Other reproductive complications include ejaculatory dysfunction, hypogonadism, modified semen parameters, and delayed puberty. Specifics of reproductive dysfunction in diabetic women are less definite than in men due to the lack of standardized evaluation of sexual function in women as well as the increased role of psychological morbidity. Despite this, it is known to manifest as hypogonadism, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, dyspareunia, menstrual dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Conclusion: Longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to better comprehend the connection between diabetes and sexual dysfunction, chiefly in females. Understanding and dividing the role of fertility and sexual issues in reproductive dysfunction can help guide evaluation and management.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus; diabetic angiopathies; diabetic neuropathies; dyspareunia; ejaculatory dysfunction; erectile dysfunction; hypoactive sexual desire disorder; hypogonadism; infertility; polycystic ovarian syndrome; sexual dysfunction.