In such chronic cases of kidney diseases, sexuality is grossly affected and it has both physical and emotional components to it. Sexual health declines in cases of kidney disease as it hampers circulation, nerve functioning secretion of hormones and depletes energy levels after dialysis.
The following are the several factors that hamper the sexual health of an individual with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or End-Stage-Renal-Disease (ESRD) :-
Hormones secreted by the body play a major role in the sexual wellness and health of an individual. The kidneys are an essential part of the endocrine system which releases hormones during sexual desires. Since kidneys are affected due to the diseases, the secretion is also hampered leading to a decrease in sexual desire.
Erectile Dysfunction is a common cause of poor sexual health in men. When a person is undergoing dialysis, there is a lot of medication that needs to be consumed. Erectile dysfunction could surface as a side effect of this.
Kidneys mostly malfunction due to diabetes and blood pressure. When a person has such conditions over a longer period of time the blood vessels weaken leading to lack of arousal.

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Body image also plays a major role in sexual health during dialysis. When a person suffers from CKD there are physical changes in the body of the individual. Some changes like body odor, bad breath, hair loss, change of complexion makes the person insecure about himself, taking a toll on the sex life of an individual.
Men may feel worried, anxious and depressed when faced with CKD. These emotions may cause loss of energy and lower interest in activities, including sex.
Besides, people are usually afraid to take part in sexual activities as they are afraid something bad might happen to them or their partners due to their condition.

Let us move on to ways to deal with the effects of dialysis on sexual health in order to manage these feelings!
Psychological Management
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is helpful in increasing the quality of life of the individual along with their negative self-image. Pharmacotherapy for depression along with therapy helps in reducing the symptoms and uplifts the sexual health of the individual.
Individuals who are having erectile dysfunction due to diabetes and blood pressure can go for lifestyle modification and therapy for sex.
Since CKD has an overall impact on the lives of the individual, the focus should not be on intercourse but more on hand-holding, kissing, hugging, cuddling, romantic interpersonal conversations etc.

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Every individual has their own set of experiences of being on dialysis. Thus, it is best to contact a mental health specialist to guide you through these conditions related to dialysis. After all, you should know that you are so much more than the disease you are going through, and that all your concerns and needs are absolutely valid!

Our body’s functions are interrelated, because of which the effect on one organ of the body can impact one’s sexual health. End-Stage-renal disease is a condition in which an individual’s kidneys stop functioning naturally and they require dialysis to carry out the process of kidneys.

Sexual Health & Dialysis