Dialysis and Sexual Functioning
Dialysis has many physical impacts on the body, which can impact sexual functioning. As we discuss sexual functioning here, it is meant to describe the physical functions related to sexuality. Since many of us do not receive a comprehensive sex education as part of our school curriculum, here is a crash course on human sexuality in case some of the terms used below are unfamiliar or you could use a refresher.
Physical Arousal/Erection - It is common to associate erection with people who have penises, but vulvas/vaginas actually have just as much erectile tissue as penises! Erections happen in penises and vulvas/vaginas when blood flows to those areas during sexual arousal. Since many people on dialysis also have blood pressure challenges, and since some types of dialysis can cause blood pressure challenges, it makes sense that ability to create and sustain erections might be impacted. For more information on what you can do if your erectile tissue is not working as planned, you can read more here.
Physical Arousal/Lubrication - While lubrication is most commonly associated with vulvas/vaginas, penises can lubricate, too! And both penises and vulvas/vaginas can have their lubrication impacted by dialysis. Since a large part of dialysis is minimizing fluids, it makes sense that lubrication would be impacted. For more information on what to do if lubrication is not showing up as planned, you can read more here.
Orgasm - more information coming. But just as a sneak peak - orgasms may not be exactly what you think they are!
It is important to note that even if these physical functions are not showing up as expected, someone can still be aroused and experience sexual pleasure. Non-erect genitals can still experience pleasure (and can even orgasm or ejaculate!). Fulfilling and fun sexual experiences can exist without orgasm. The biggest barrier to sexual pleasure is our own limiting ideas of what a “successful” sexual interaction looks like. If we are able to focus on pleasure, fun, and connection, a whole new world of sexual expression opens up. Making that mental shift can be challenging. Check out our Dialysexy-specific resources, or consider talking with a couples therapist or relationship coach who can help guide you and your partners explore changing your limiting beliefs around sex. Visit the resources page for more information on where to find sexual health professionals in your area or online.