Diabetes: more complications in women

According to the WHO, 400 million people have diabetes worldwide. In these individuals, the body struggles to produce insulin, which leads to an increase in the level of sugar in their blood. Although this disease strikes both men and women, it does not affect them in the same way. Increased risk of developing heart disease, possible complications during pregnancy, repeated urinary tract infections… diabetic women seem to face more problems. On the occasion of the new edition of the World Diabetes Day November 14Why Doctor tells you more.

An increased risk heart disease

While in men with diabetes the risk of developing heart disease is two to three times higher, in women with diabetes it is six times higher. They are more likely to have poor glycemic control, unhealthy cholesterol levels, obesity or high blood pressure. They are also more affected by death from heart failure.

“It’s due to the biological differences in how they experience heart attacks. Women may be more prone to nausea, shortness of breath, or back and jaw discomfort than classic angina-like chest pain. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications,” says Dr. Kenny Cole, specialist in the disease, at the Anglo-Saxon site BusinessReport.

More urinary tract infections

While most women experience at least one UTI in their lifetime, those with diabetes are at greater risk. Especially if their blood sugar level is high, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). “Causes include high blood sugar and poor blood circulation (which reduces the body’s ability to fight infection). In addition, some women have bladders that do not empty completely due to diabetes, which creates a perfect environment for the growth of bacteria”, is it explained on the site of the American health authority.

To prevent these infections, the organization recommends that women with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels under control. As with all, it is also recommended to drink plenty of water, to urinate often and to wear cotton underwear.

The menstrual cycle complicates blood sugar management

Hormonal changes before and during menstruation can make it difficult to predict blood sugar levels. Sometimes women have longer or heavier periods than usual, and the food cravings that often occur during this period can further complicate matters. “If you use insulin, you may need to take more in the days leading up to your period. Talk to your doctor about changing your dosage if needed. Being active most days, eating enough healthy foods, and getting enough sleep can also help,” advises the CDC.

Disturbed sexual relations

While a diabetic man may suffer from erection problems, a woman with the disease may have lubrication problems during sexual arousal. The damage to the arteries and nerves then leads to a reduction in the swelling of the sexual tissues around the vagina and at the level of the clitoris. This vaginal dryness can lead to pain at the time of penetration, which, in the long term, can of course have harmful consequences on the libido. To remedy these problems, it is of course a question of balancing the diabetes as best as possible. It is also possible to use lubricant and to strengthen the perineum.

Complications during pregnancy

Women with diabetes who want to have a baby should plan their pregnancy in advance. Indeed, high blood sugar can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure), cesarean delivery, miscarriage or the baby being born prematurely. In addition, since the child’s organs are formed during the first two months of pregnancy, suffering from high blood sugar during this period can lead to birth defects.

The risk of gestational diabetes

This is pregnancy-specific hyperglycemia. Any woman can develop it, but those who are overweight or have a history of type 2 diabetes in their family are at greater risk. If you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, your doctor will help you keep your blood sugar levels normal by guiding your diet and encouraging you to exercise regularly. However, you may also need diabetes medications or insulin injections.

If the Gestational Diabetes usually disappears after birth, about 50% of women who have had it then develop type 2 diabetes. Also, if you have been concerned, consider getting tested four to twelve weeks after childbirth. Then continue doing it every one to three years.

Complications during menopause

Since menopause induces a drop in estrogen, blood sugar levels in diabetic women can fluctuate unpredictably, which can lead to significant weight gain. This hormonal upheaval can also worsen the vaginal dryness and nerve damage that women with diabetes often suffer from.

Remember, however, that diabetes is a manageable disease provided that patients regularly control their blood sugar levels and adopt a regular sports practice as well as a healthy diet. In this regard, experts recommend in particular to keep a logbook where to note the contents of your meals in detail. Limit carbs, eat lean meats, and cut down on alcohol and tobacco as much as possible.