Many people have knowledge of diabetes and the ins and outs of that disease. Unfortunately, not a lot of people know the struggle of dating and sex when you have diabetes.
Many people find it difficult and stressful for a variety of reasons, like actually disclosing you have diabetes or trying to tell someone you can eat at one restaurant, but not another.
A lot of people find community in designated groups geared towards people with diabetes, which are commonly found on Facebook or with a simple google search.
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Also, the best thing one can do (as a partner without diabetes), is to do some research. Learning about your partner is important, and that does include all aspects of them.
Be cautious though because there’s a fine line between being supportive and being overbearing. Ask your partner about what kind of support they would like and what that looks like for them. Remember this is a learning opportunity.
A great place to find some advice on caring for your partner is this article from BeyondType1. This is a guide from people with diabetes, on how to best care for your partner, such as helping them keep up with their blood sugar.
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READ: How to Manage Relationship Fatigue
Another hurdle for people with diabetes is sex. We all need some kind of energy to have sex because it can take a lot out of you. At the end of the day, it’s physical exercise.
The problem with this is that if your blood sugar isn’t stable or leveled,
then it will be very difficult, if not dangerous to engage in sex.
Because of the amount of energy that’s expelled during sex, the diabetic partner should have something to give them a boost afterward, like orange juice or a candy bar.
This BeyondType1 article gives some more insight into having sex while being diabetic.
READ: 4 Pillars Of A Healthy Relationship
Here are some dos and don’ts of how to best navigate having a diabetic partner according to Everyday Health:
- Lifestyle choices aren’t always the reason someone is diabetic, so do some research before you pass judgment.
- Try planning some active dates just to keep yourselves healthy, so don’t make everything about weight.
- Let your date/partner know where you’re going to eat in advance and see if it’s the best move for how they’re doing that day.
- Watch the sugar!
- Remember, while you and your partner are a unit, this is their illness, so let them take the lead.
- Ask before you assume!
- Keep the fear of needles to yourself.
- A sharps container can come in handy if it’s something your partner needs and your relationship becomes more serious.
Remember that their illness is not who they are, just a part of them.
Be just as kind as you would want someone to be to you or your loved one!
