Diabetes and ED

High blood sugar could be affecting your ED as well—but it doesn’t have to.

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when blood sugar is too high, resulting from the body’s inability to produce or effectively use insulin. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can cause nerve, blood vessel, and muscle damage to the urinary system.¹

Diabetes can significantly impact erectile function due to its effects on the blood vessels and nerves essential for getting an erection.¹

of adults over age 65 are affected by diabetes²

of men with diabetes experience ED¹

of diabetes, especially in younger men¹

Find the right treatment option

Most cases of ED can be treated. While oral medications are often the first step, they have been shown to be less effective for men with diabetes.³ When alternate treatment options are needed, ED treatment options such as injection therapy, vacuum devices, or a penile implant may be recommended.⁴ If you are a diabetic and experiencing ED, talk to an ED specialist about the treatment options that may be best for you.

Explore ED treatment options

Talk to someone who understands your struggle

James is a Patient Educator whose diabetes caused a 20-year struggle with erectile dysfunction. He has faced similar challenges to yours – and he’s ready to share his experience with you.

Schedule a call

Find a specialist

Explore our physician directory to find a local qualified urologist who specializes in men’s health and ED. They can answer your questions, explain your treatment options, and coordinate with your primary care provider to help you find the right solution based on your individual medical history and any associated risks that might be involved.

Find a physician

References

1 Diabetes, Sexual & Bladder Problems. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/preventing-problems/sexual-bladder-problems. Accessed May 2024.

2 The Top 10 Most Common Chronic Conditions in Older Adults. National Council on Aging. https://www.ncoa.org/article/the-top-10-most-common-chronic-conditions-in-older-adults. Accessed May 2024.

3 Walsh TJ, Hotaling JM, Smith A, Saigal C, Wessells H. Men with diabetes may require more aggressive treatment for ED. Int J of Impotence Research 2013; 26:112-115.

4 Diabetes and men. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/risk-factors/diabetes-and-men.html. Accessed May 2024.

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