For Women Only…
Provided by
Johns Hopkins University
For Women Only…
Posted by Christine McKinney, M.S., R.D., C.D.E.
on Fri, Feb 23, 2007, 5:58 pm PST
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Many women aren’t aware of those aspects of diabetes that pertain just
to them. Even if one of the following issues isn’t a problem for you
right now, it’s important to know about them for your future health and
for that of others.
Yeast infections. I have heard the story many times how diabetes was
actually diagnosed by a gynecologist in women who had frequent yeast
infections. Elevated blood glucose levels provide an environment for
yeast to grow because yeast actually feeds on sugar. Controlling blood
glucose levels can help reduce yeast infections.
Sex. Most men with diabetes know that they are more likely to suffer
from erectile dysfunction. Women are often surprised to learn that
sex-related complications from diabetes can affect them, as well.
Discomfort during intercourse can occur due to decreased vaginal
lubrication. Diabetes-related nerve damage may also reduce a woman’s
pleasure during sex. A decreased interest in sex is another common
complaint. All of these issues can be dealt with by talking openly about
them with your doctor.
Menstruation and menopause. When hormones fluctuate, so do blood glucose
levels. Each woman’s response is unique, so no textbook can tell you
what is happening to your glucose levels during menstruation and
menopause. But for many women, blood glucose levels rise right before
and during the menstrual cycle; for others, the rise occurs only after.
During menopause, most women with diabetes will experience more frequent
fluctuations in glucose levels; these fluctuations may indicate that a
change is needed in your diabetes medications. Keeping a detailed
logbook of your blood glucose levels is the best way for you and your
doctor to tackle glycemic control.
Self-care. As I talk with my women clients, I hear a common thread: "I
don’t have time to take care of my diabetes because I am taking care of
others." This response can of course also come from men but, in our
society, the women in our lives tend to take on the caregiver role. So
while taking time for self-care isn’t just an issue for women, I want to
emphasize to caring women everywhere that they must not forget to take
care of themselves, too. Only when you are healthy can you continue to
give care to others.
Last, if I could say only two things to women with diabetes, they would
be: Take time for yourself, and talk openly with your doctor about any