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Diabetes, psychological function and male sexuality
R C Schiavi1, B B Stimmel, J Mandeli
1Department of Psychiatry and Biomathematical Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York City, NY 10029, USA.
Journal of Psychosomatic Research
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Diabetic men experience lower sexual drive, arousal, and satisfaction compared to healthy individuals. These sexual issues are linked to body image concerns, not marital problems or psychological distress.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Urology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Sexual dysfunction is a common concern for men with diabetes.
- Understanding psychological factors is crucial for managing sexual health in diabetes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate psychological contributors and correlates of sexual dysfunction in diabetic men.
- To compare sexual function and related psychological aspects between diabetic men and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A psychosexual interview and comprehensive medical evaluation were conducted.
- Psychological and marital adjustment were assessed using validated inventories (SADS-L, SCL-90-R, DSFI, Locke-Wallace, Dyadic Adjustment).
- 40 diabetic men and 40 age-matched healthy controls participated.
Main Results:
- Diabetic patients reported significantly lower erotic drive, sexual arousal, enjoyment, and satisfaction compared to controls.
- Sexual function issues in diabetic men were associated with altered sexual attitudes and body image.
- No significant differences were found in marital adjustment between the groups.
- Psychological distress and psychiatric disorders were not found to be associated with diabetes or its sexual effects.
Conclusions:
- Diabetic men exhibit diminished sexual function, linked to psychological factors like body image, rather than marital discord or general psychological distress.
- Further research should explore targeted interventions for body image and sexual well-being in diabetic men.
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