Eighteen chronic hemodialysis patients were interviewed by staff trained in sex therapy. Compared with the pre-uremic phase, sexual satisfaction was less in nine subjects, greater in four; frequency of intercourse had declined in ten subjects. Dysfunctions of sexual response were reported by five men and six women. Analysis of physical factors, medication and depression showed no clear association with sexual dysfunction, suggesting the importance of psychosocial factors. A trial of sex therapy in renal patients is proposed.
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