Diabetes in women: surely it’s the same as it is for men? You might be surprised to find that, though there are similarities, symptoms of Type 2 diabetes can be different, with different associated risks. Worried? Let’s look at some facts regarding women and Type 2 diabetes, starting with symptoms and looking at additional risks and how to manage them.

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms in Women

Type 2 diabetes symptoms include unusual hunger and thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, headaches, slow healing sores, and blurry vision. There are some other symptoms that can be specific for women as well:

Frequent Urinary Tract and Yeast Infections

Vaginal yeast infections and urinary tract infections aren’t necessarily cause for alarm, but if they occur frequently, they may be a symptom of Type 2 diabetes.

High blood sugar levels increase the chance of bacteria or yeast overgrowth and diabetes can also mean that your bladder fails to empty properly, increasing the chances of getting an infection. On the brighter side, knowing that you have Type 2 diabetes should encourage you to take steps to manage your blood sugar levels, and that goes a long way toward preventing further infections.

Track your blood sugar levels in the measurement you prefer with our blood sugar level converter.

Changes in Menstruation

If your period is becoming heavier and you are bleeding more freely than usual, it may be a symptom of Type 2 diabetes. The same is true if your periods start tending to be late or become irregular.

Female Sexual Dysfunction

Type 2 diabetes can lead to vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable or painful. However, the good news is that the days of wine and roses needn’t be over. Chat to your doctor about any sexual issues you’re experiencing. There are various ways to get your sex-life back on track.

Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes in Women

As a woman, Type 2 diabetes symptoms are a sign that you should go for a simple diabetes screening test. If you’re among those who fall into higher-risk categories, you have all the more reason to act swiftly.

If you’re over 45, or are overweight, have diabetes in your family, have previously given birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds, have a history of gestational diabetes, or have high blood sugar or high cholesterol levels, being alert to the potential of Type 2 diabetes affecting you will be important. Other risk factors include sedentary habits, having polycystic ovary syndrome, or a history of cardiovascular disease.

Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes in Women

Like any person who is living with diabetes, medicating as directed, getting healthy exercise, eating a healthier diet, quitting smoking and monitoring your blood sugar will help you to manage your condition. If you’d like to try additional supplements or alternative remedies, be sure to discuss these with your doctor.

Complications of Type 2 Diabetes in Women

Women can be at higher risk of developing complications of Type 2 diabetes like heart disease, depression, eye problems or kidney disease. It is also really important to wear comfortable well-fitting shoes to avoid damage to your feet. The good news is that looking after your health by controlling your blood glucose level, blood pressure and cholesterol will reduce your risk of developing complications from Type 2 diabetes.

Can You Still Enjoy Life as a Woman With Type 2 Diabetes?

As we’ve seen, the symptoms of diabetes are unique in some ways. Knowing what’s causing your issues puts you on track towards fixing them. It all comes down to managing your condition well: looking after your overall health and being diligent with your treatment. So, if you’re worried that you may be showing Type 2 diabetes symptoms, go for your screening! It could be your first step towards a happier, healthier, and longer life.

At the same time, you have a prompt to get your affairs in order - something that even the healthiest of us should do. Need life insurance for extra peace of mind? There’s no need to struggle with higher premiums and complicated application procedures. Choose personalised insurance that’s tailored for people living with diabetes. Blueberry Life is more than just an insurance policy, we’re also there to offer you support and healthy lifestyle tips and valuable information. Find out more about life insurance for chronic conditions or start your application today and watch us spring into action. All you need is 5 minutes to tell us about yourself.

‍

Reviewed by Dr. Kingshuk Pal