Diabetes and Infertility

Diabetes is a very common disease, especially in the United States. Unfortunately, it can also contribute to fertility problems for both men and women. If you have been having trouble conceiving for a year or more and cannot identify another cause, there’s a chance that diabetes may be causing infertility.

Diabetes and Infertility in Men

Diabetes can affect male fertility in a number of ways. One of the most common is by lowering testosterone levels. This will lower your sex drive and can cause erectile dysfunction. Diabetes can also affect your ability to maintain an erection by reducing blood circulation or by causing nerve damage. Some men with diabetes also face challenges to ejaculation. Nerve problems can prevent the bladder muscles from closing as they are supposed to. It can result in semen entering the bladder instead of the penis. This is called retrograde ejaculation. Luckily, most of these problems can be treated with simple medication (source: https://culturalhealthsolutions.com/prevent-diabetes/).

Diabetes and Infertility in Women

Women can also face challenges to fertility coming from diabetes. High glucose levels can through estrogen levels out of balance, affecting fertility. Some women with diabetes have irregular periods or menstrual irregularities such as amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea, which can make conception more difficult. In addition, diabetes can make bringing a pregnancy to term more difficult. In women with diabetes, a fertilized embryo may not be able to implant itself properly in the lining of the uterus. This will result in an early miscarriage. Women with this problem may not realize they are having miscarriages, they may simply believe they are having fertility issues.

What You Can Do

If you are having trouble conceiving, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor to find out which factors may be affecting your fertility. If you know you have diabetes and are planning to get pregnant, there are some helpful steps you can take. Work on a healthy diet and exercise so that you can maintain a healthy weight. You should also be extra careful to control your daily sugar levels, which can help to minimize the negative effects of diabetes on fertility.

Pregnancy tips to help you conceive

The time to start working toward a healthy pregnancy is before you conceive. If you are trying to get pregnant quick, our pregnancy tips are good start to get your body ready for conception process.

Information about Conceive Plus

If you have just started trying to get pregnant or have been trying for a while, Conceive Plus® can help increase your chances of conception naturally! Recommended by doctors, pharmacists and fertility clinics in more than 60 countries, this is the fertility friendly lubricant approved by the FDA and a prescription is not required. For where to buy Conceive Plus, visit our where to buy page

Frequently Asked Questions

Can diabetes cause infertility in the UK?

Yes, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can affect fertility in men and women. High blood glucose levels can disrupt hormone balance, affect sperm quality, and cause menstrual irregularities. If you're struggling to conceive, it's worth speaking to your GP about diabetes screening, especially as 1 in 7 UK couples experience fertility issues.

Will the NHS help with fertility if I have diabetes?

The NHS does provide fertility support for people with diabetes, though you'll typically need to demonstrate good blood sugar control first. NICE guidelines recommend that women with diabetes who are trying to conceive should aim for an HbA1c below 48 mmol/mol before becoming pregnant. Your GP can refer you to both a diabetes specialist and fertility services if needed.

How does diabetes affect male fertility?

Diabetes can lower testosterone levels, reduce sex drive, and cause erectile dysfunction due to nerve damage or poor circulation. Some men also experience retrograde ejaculation, where semen enters the bladder instead of leaving through the penis. The good

news is that many of these issues can be treated with medication prescribed by your GP or urologist.

Can I get IVF on the NHS if I have diabetes?

Eligibility for NHS-funded IVF varies by Integrated Care Board (ICB), but having diabetes doesn't automatically disqualify you. However, most clinics require your diabetes to be well-controlled before treatment begins, as this improves success rates and reduces pregnancy risks. Check with your local ICB for specific funding criteria in your area.

Does diabetes cause miscarriage?

Poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of early miscarriage, as high glucose levels may affect embryo implantation in the uterus. Some women may experience very early pregnancy losses without realising they've conceived. Working with your diabetes team to optimise your blood sugar levels before trying to conceive can significantly reduce this risk.

How long should I try to conceive before seeing my GP if I have diabetes?

If you have diabetes and have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, you should book an appointment with your GP for a referral. However, if you're over 36 or have concerns about your menstrual cycle or blood sugar control, it's worth seeking advice sooner. Your GP can arrange initial fertility tests and ensure your diabetes management is optimised for conception.

What lifestyle changes help with diabetes-related fertility problems?

Maintaining stable blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial for improving fertility outcomes. The NHS recommends achieving a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, and taking folic acid supplements before trying to conceive. Working closely with your diabetes nurse and GP can help you create a preconception care plan tailored to your needs.