In general, it is accepted that people with diabetes are able to perform normal sexual activities and lead satisfying sex lives. In a recent conferance the question was asked of a panel of experts as to whether diabetes had an effect on a woman's sex drive. The quick and correct response came back: "Many, many things can effect a women's sex drive!" I suppose if you ask a silly question, sometimes you get an answer you should already know... But I shouldn't disregard this whole issue, because in a small number of cases of longer term diabetics, the complications that go with diabetes can effect sexual performance.

For more information regarding this topic refer to your diabetes specialist or check out diabetes.com which has some good further material on this subject.

Sexual function in men:
Impotence can be a problem in a male with diabetes who has had non-complant  blood sugar control and has the condition for many years. This is caused by neuropathy and damages the nerves that control an erection.

Sexual function in women:
Vaginal dryness in some diabetic women is noticed when the vagina doesn't naturally lubricate during sexual activity. This can make sexual relations uncomfortable. Although this condition can occur in all women, it is more likely in women with non-compliant blood sugar control. Also vaginal yeast infections of women with diabetes is a problem because high blood sugars in the body causes the cells in the immune system to be less effective in destroying bacteria that enters the body.