I am 38-years-old and have been with my partner for almost four years. I have had Type 2 diabetes for five years and use insulin five times a day.
"Over the last three and a half years I’ve suffered from severe neuropathy, so I’m on medication for that and also take tablets to lower my blood pressure.
"I first noticed my erection problems about two years ago. The desire was still strong, but when it came to the point of penetration, my erection simply vanished. In the past, I have never had any problems getting and maintaining an erection so it came as quite a surprise.
"My partner and I have always enjoyed a loving and active sex life. At first I questioned our relationship. Did I still find her attractive? Was I looking at other women? Had the relationship changed in some way? Through sheer process of elimination, I came to realise the problem was mechanical.
"During this period, it affected our sexual relationship up to a point, but not in a detrimental way. Even though I wasn’t always able to perform penetrative sex, she was quite happy to be stimulated in other ways.
"Luckily, my partner and I talk freely about everything and we were able to discuss the problem without too many inhibitions. I reassured her it was nothing to do with her and that I thought it was linked to my diabetes.
"I have a light-hearted relationship with my diabetes team so I didn’t have a problem speaking to them about it.
"The next time I was due for a doctor’s appointment, I told my GP about the erectile problems. She was very helpful and gave me a list of the drugs available and I opted for Cialis.
"It didn’t take long to get used to the tablets. I take one about half an hour before I think we might have sex. More than 50 per cent of the time I can do without the tablets, but it’s good to know they are there as a back up. One tablet lasts for about 36 hours.
"My partner was very happy to give the tablets a go. She prefers me to try without the tablets, but she has no real problem with them.
"I haven’t suffered any side effects and although it slightly takes the spontaneity away, our sex life is as active and healthy as ever."
