In a nutshell
This study looked at the effect of weight loss surgery on sexual functioning for men with type 2 diabetes (T2D). It found that fewer men experienced erectile dysfunction (ED) following surgery.
Some background
T2D is a metabolic disorder in which the body does not respond well to the hormone insulin and cannot create enough insulin to control blood sugar. T2D is often related to obesity. Additionally, other hormones can be poorly regulated in patients with T2D. In men, low testosterone, obesity, and T2D are interconnected.
Obesity and T2D can cause high blood pressure and poor heart health. Men with T2D are more likely to experience ED, which is related to cardiovascular health.
Weight loss surgery is an effective treatment for T2D and obesity. Sleeve gastrectomy with loop bipartition (SG+LB) is a type of weight loss surgery that involves making an extra connection from the stomach to the small intestine. All weight loss surgery has risks, but SG+LB may cause less vitamin deficiency than other kinds of weight loss surgery. It is not clear whether weight loss surgery can improve sexual functioning for men with T2D.
Methods & findings
This study included 36 men with T2D who were undergoing SG+LB weight loss surgery. The men were given surveys of erectile and sexual functioning prior to surgery and 6 months after surgery. The surveys given included questions on erectile function, orgasm, sexual desire, premature ejaculation, and overall satisfaction.
Among men with mild to moderate ED prior to surgery, significantly fewer experienced ED after surgery. All patients had a significant improvement in relationship issues related to ejaculation. There was also a significant improvement in overall satisfaction. Other aspects of sexual functioning did not change after surgery.
The bottom line
This study found that weight loss surgery improves ED for men with T2D and obesity.
The fine print
Men with severe ED were older than those with mild to moderate ED (56.6 vs 49.5 years). Overall health prior to surgery can influence outcomes.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about weight loss options and how they can improve your overall and sexual health.
Published By :
Obesity surgery
Date :
Jul 28, 2020
