Sexual Dysfunction in Dialysis Patients: A Review

Normal sexual function is an important component of quality of life. Sexual dysfunction is common in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), especially those with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and sufficiently reduced kidney function to require renal replacement therapy. The symptoms of SD start early with declining Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and are rarely improved after starting dialysis treatment. Erectile dysfunction in men and anovulation in women are the most common symptoms. The etiology of these symptoms is complex and multifactorial. While phosphodiestrase - 5 inhibitors are effective in men with erectile dysfunction, no effective therapy exists for women with SD and women on hemodialysis are generally counseled to avoid pregnancy. Renal transplantation is considered the best option for women of childbearing age planning to conceive. The following review is focused on the physiology SD in CKD and available treatment options available.