Barb DePree, MD Provides Diabetic Women 6 Tips for a Healthy Sex Life

HOLLAND, Mich., Nov. 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- According to new data from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2017 Scientific Sessions, sexual issues and dysfunction lack recognition and are undertreated in both men and women.

"Women's health and sexuality is complex, and is especially so when diabetes is thrown in the mix," says Barb DePree, MD, Ob/Gyn, Director of the Women's Midlife Services at Holland Hospital in Michigan and author of Yes You Can: Dr. Barb's Recipe for Lifelong Intimacy. "It's vital for diabetic women to understand the extra care required to enjoy a healthy sex life- from diet, to exercise, to the preventative measures that help to balance yeast and bacteria down below."

Dr. DePree recommends the following six tips to help boost sexual satisfaction, maintain feminine health, and promote overall wellbeing:

    1. New toys and devices increase blood flow to the clitoris, which is
       helpful as diabetics' experience blood vessel changes that can cause
       decreased arousal and sensation. A vibrator can help with self-pleasure
       but a personal device like Fiera warms up a woman's libido naturally
       before foreplay to help get her in the mood. Don't forget to use a
       water-based, sugar-free lube like Wet Naturals with any toy or device.
    2. Take a vaginal lactobacillus supplement every day. A study found that
       oral probiotics taken regularly can resolve most feminine issues. Pro-B
       is a daily supplement that balances yeast and bacteria with two vaginal
       strains of probiotic lactobacillus (flora), L. rhamnosus GR-1(TM) and L.
       reuteri RC-14(TM).
    3. Exercise the pelvic floor with a medical device like Intensity which
       strengthens the pelvic floor and precipitates orgasm through dual
       vibrators to the clitoris and G-spot.
    4. pH matters.  Increased blood sugar levels can elevate the pH of your
       vagina. When healthy lactobacilli can no longer survive, bad bacterial
       growth can cause bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.
       Re-balancing pH to a healthy range of 3.8-4.5 is possible with RepHresh
       gel.  Pregnant women with gestational diabetes and an unbalanced vaginal
       pH are more likely to develop vaginal infections that can cause premature
       birth.
    5. Use a sugar-free lube. Popular ingredients in lubes like glycerin and
       propylene glycol can elevate vaginal pH and trigger yeast infections. Use
       a silicone-based lube like Replens Silky Smooth or Wet Platinum just
       prior to intercourse to ease penetration, enhance intimacy and eliminate
       the chances of abrasion.
    6. Sex makes for good sleep. For diabetics, getting sufficient sleep is
       especially important. Sex increases estrogen release in women, positively
       impacting REM sleep.  The release of oxytocin following stimulation and
       orgasm increases calmness while lowered cortisol levels reduce stress. 
       During orgasm, there is also an increased release of prolactin to help
       women fall asleep faster; this also plays a role in controlling blood
       sugar.

"So, remember to keep your blood sugar under control. And, make a visit to the nearest drug store for over-the-counter products that help overcome roadblocks to an active sex life," adds DePree.

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SOURCE Barb DePree, MD