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The Kidney Connection - Sex and Sexuality
EasyLink Access #: 173
What is sexuality? Many believe it refers only to sexual intercourse, but it actually has a much broader definition. It also refers to self-image, how you communicate with other people, and simply building a relationship. It includes such activities as touching, kissing, and hugging, or just being with each other and participating in activities you both enjoy. Physical and Emotional Effects Those with kidney disease are more prone to have sexual problems than those with normally functioning kidneys. The physical and emotional effects of kidney disease on sexuality are complex for both partners. For those who are chronically ill, however, lovemaking could provide them with a way of feeling normal. Why are you likely to have more problems with sex and sexuality if you suffer from kidney failure? Because the chemical changes occurring in your body affect hormones, circulation, nerve function, and energy level. These changes can lower interest in sex or the ability to have sexual intercourse. Also, kidney failure patients are in a weaker overall state of health. Once your body adjusts to your dialysis treatments, however, you should feel better, and interest in having sex with your partner may return to its previous level. Your Metabolic State Kidney disease affects your general metabolic state. It could affect testosterone secretion leading to testicular atrophy in males, and women may stop ovulating or menstruating. Chronic uremia is associated with listlessness and lethargy and may also affect the pelvic autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for controlling sexual arousal. Anemia and electrolyte imbalance may add to a general weakened state, impaired neuromuscular function, and depression. Physical Changes Physical changes that may occur in kidney patients could cause them to feel less attractive sexually. Some of the medicines they take, particularly those to control higher blood pressure (BP), may effect how they function sexually. Steroids may also cause them to gain weight, have acne, and unwanted hair growth or loss. Surgical scars can cause them to feel unattractive. Some dialysis patients may be concerned that normal sexual activity could harm the vascular access. This is not true, however, as long as what they do does not place undue pressure or tension on the access site. Ask Your Doctor If you are having sexual problems, you may want to ask your doctor to compile a complete medical, psychological, and sexual history of you and your partner. Medications can be reviewed for those that may have sexual side effects. Blood tests may include checking hormone and glucose (blood sugar) levels for diabetes. Men can be checked to determine if the blood supply to the penis is adequate and if they can have an erection. Worried? Anxious? Depressed? At times, it is normal that those with kidney disease feel worried, anxious, even depressed. These feelings can cause you to lose energy and lower your interest in sex. Therefore, it is important that you consider such activities as relaxation and regular physical activity. Sex therapy may also help. A sex therapist can be a psychiatrist, psychologist, your doctor, or social worker. You can schedule times for increased nurturing of each other. If you don't feel any sexual desire, just cuddle, hug, or hold each other. Remember that sexual intercourse is only one (and, for some, not necessarily the most important) part of your life as a sexual being. Qualified professionals can help you with your sexual issues. They can help you enjoy your intimate and sexual relationships so you and your partner can enjoy your lives to their fullest. More Information For more information, log onto:
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