The Facts of Life

Remember that sex is unlawful under the age of 16.

Do you think talking about sex is embarrassing?

It's always embarrassing to talk about sex but if you want advice or guidance without talking to your parents, you can discuss this with your Diabetes Team in confidence.

What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

The most talked about transmitted disease is HIV which can lead to AIDS in which your immune system starts to break down.  Other sexually transmitted diseases can be cured if they are caught in time, i.e. Gonorrhoea, (the Clap) Herpes, Syphilis and Thrush.  If you think you might have a problem (e.g.. unusual discharge, smelly or an itch) ask your GP or diabetes team for advice and help.  If may be nothing but it is always best to get checked out and put your mind at rest.

What are the risks?

People who have diabetes are just as much at risk from sexually transmitted disease as anybody else.  STDs are rapidly becoming more common and can cause unpleasant and harmful effects.  Thrush is not necessarily an STD but can be transmitted through sex and is common in diabetes (sugar in the urine encourages the fungus).  You can get cream and tablets from your chemist to treat it or seek advice from your GP.  Remember to always use a condom which will prevent unwanted pregnancies and STDs.

What is Thrush?

Thrush is common in both boys and girls with diabetes but do not worry because it is easy to treat with cream or tablets.  It is a fungal infection which usually causes discomfort, itching and sometimes discharge from the vagina or penis.  It is common in diabetic people because fungus likes sugar so when you have sugar in your urine, you can easily get thrush.  You don't have to have sex to catch thrust but sex does spread the infection. 

Sex and hypos

Sex is also a form of exercise and you do not want to have a hypo during it.  Take extra carbohydrate before exercise or have some sugar handy, and check your partner knows what to do if you have a hypo.  It is always best to discuss your diabetes with your partner so they are aware if anything is to happen.

Contraception

There are different types of contraception available.  The most common type of contraception is the pill which helps prevent unwanted pregnancies but this does NOT prevent STDs.  Listed below is some helpful information to guide you through safe sex.

Condoms

Condoms are the only form of contraception which will protect you from sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy.  They are available from any supermarket, Family Planning Clinic or chemist.

Contraceptive pill

All forms of contraceptive pill are usually suitable for women with diabetes.  Discuss your options with your Diabetes Team or GP.  You can get the contraceptive pill from your GP or Family Planning Clinic by obtaining a prescription.

Morning after pill

If you have had unprotected sex and are worried that you may be pregnant and do not want to be, you must take the morning after pill within 3 days of having sex.  It is available on prescription form your GP, Family Planning Clinic or you can alternatively get it from your local chemist.  If you are under the age of 16 then you must seek advice from your GP.  The morning after pill does not protect you from STDs.

Pregnancy

If you think you are pregnant you must find out immediately.  Tests are available from the Family Planning Clinic, GP or chemist.  If you are pregnant, you will have to work extremely hard to keep your blood sugars under control.  If you are planning a pregnancy it is important to discuss this with your Diabetes Team and obtain the correct information on how to look after you and your baby safely.  If you do not keep good control of your diabetes whilst you are pregnant then it can harm your baby.

You will need to do regular tests for your blood sugar and try to keep them stable.  It is important that you speak to your Dietitian to seek advice about the correct foods you should be eating.  Women with diabetes often have successful pregnancy and healthy babies however it is important to keep in contact with your Diabetes Team so they can monitor your diabetes on a regular basis.