Diabetes mellitus affects the intimate area
The skin in the intimate area is delicate and sensitive—its protective outer layer is even thinner than that of the face. Yet, as a barrier to the outside world, it must constantly fend off pathogens (such as fungi and bacteria), urine, stool, mechanical stress, and other external influences. Elevated blood sugar levels, characteristic of diabetes mellitus, can impair the health and defense function of the intimate skin, leading to chronic itching in this sensitive area. This is especially true when blood sugar remains persistently high or when diabetes has been present for many years.
Itching and other intimate discomforts (such as burning, soreness, and infections) are common consequences. Additionally, these symptoms can sometimes be early indicators of undiagnosed diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus can cause itching in the intimate area
The exact mechanisms by which diabetes mellitus affects skin health—particularly in the intimate area—are not yet fully understood. However, it is well established that this metabolic disease triggers itching in several ways:
Prolonged high blood sugar levels can impair various nerve functions, including those that transmit itch sensations in the intimate area and other parts of the skin. Additionally, nerve damage contributes to dryness in the intimate area, which can further intensify itching. This happens because sebaceous and sweat glands are regulated by nerves. If their function is impaired, the skin loses essential moisture and oils.
Another cause of itching in the intimate area is increased water loss from the skin. When blood sugar exceeds a certain threshold, the body eliminates excess glucose through the kidneys, leading to increased urination and fluid loss. This characteristic symptom of diabetes mellitus is even reflected in its name:
- “Diabetes” (from ancient Greek) means “passing through,” referring to frequent urination.
- “Mellitus” (from Latin) means “honey-sweet,” describing the high sugar content in the urine.
When the intimate skin becomes dry and cracked, it can no longer function properly as a protective barrier. Tiny fissures in the skin provide entry points for pathogens such as bacteria and fungi. If these microorganisms penetrate deeper layers of the skin, they can multiply and cause infections—often accompanied by itching, burning, or painful urination.
Diabetes further increases susceptibility to infections by weakening the immune system, which impairs the body’s ability to fight off pathogens. Common infections in the intimate area that frequently occur in diabetes and cause itching include:
- Yeast infections (Candida albicans) in the vulva
- Inflammation of the glans (Balanitis) in men
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition, meaning additional triggers for itching may develop over time, exacerbating the issue. These include:
- Age-related skin dryness
- In women: Skin dryness due to menopause
Regardless of age, conditions such as lichen sclerosus, eczema (atopic dermatitis), and psoriasis can also cause itching in the intimate area. If a person with diabetes develops one of these skin disorders, the risk of itching increases even further.
Managing itching in the intimate area: Lowering blood sugar
In addition to medical treatment, proper intimate care and hygiene are essential. The lipid-replenishing Deumavan Deumavan Protective Ointment is recommended for both men and women. When applied thinly to dry intimate skin multiple times a day, it helps prevent and soothe itching.
Intimate care: Protecting and nourishing the skin
In addition to medical treatment, proper intimate care and hygiene are essential. The lipid-replenishing Deumavan Deumavan Protective Ointment is recommended for both men and women. When applied thinly to dry intimate skin multiple times a day, it helps prevent and soothe itching.
- Deumavan Protective Ointment forms a barrier against external irritants (such as urine and friction from underwear) that can trigger or worsen itching.
- It moisturizes and replenishes fats in the skin, counteracting dryness-related itching.
For gentle cleansing, Deumavan Washing Lotion is an excellent complement to intimate care.
