Exploring the Connection Between Kidney Health and Sexual Function - Urology

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Are the kidneys related to sexual function?


Hello, I often hear traditional Chinese medicine practitioners talk about kidney deficiency and insufficient kidney energy leading to Yang collapse.
Is this true? If it is true, then for someone with hematuria, does it mean that the kidneys are really not functioning well? What should I do? Could excessive sexual activity be the cause? I currently have a habit of masturbation; is there a way to improve the aforementioned issues? I often download adult videos, and when I watch them, I experience penile erection, but I don't want to masturbate too frequently, so I just watch.
However, could prolonged engorgement lead to erectile dysfunction? I've had these issues since middle school, and my interest lies in watching adult videos.

123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/26

Dr. Lin Hexing reply Urology


Hello, 123: There is no direct relationship between the kidneys and sexual function.
About 70% of patients with chronic kidney failure, also known as uremia, experience sexual dysfunction.
Therefore, the term "kidney deficiency" in Traditional Chinese Medicine is somewhat ambiguous from a Western medical perspective, and I am unsure what specific condition it refers to.
The presence of hematuria does not necessarily indicate a kidney problem; however, if you have hematuria, it is essential to consult a nephrologist for a thorough examination.
Frequent masturbation while watching adult films, leading to prolonged engorgement, is not a cause of erectile dysfunction.
Moderate sexual release is a normal physiological need, but one should avoid excessive indulgence.
I recommend finding a suitable exercise regimen to improve your physical fitness, which can be beneficial for your sexual health.

Reply Date: 2004/10/26

More Info


The relationship between kidney health and sexual function is a topic that has garnered attention in both traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine. In TCM, the concept of "kidney deficiency" or "kidney qi deficiency" is often cited as a cause of sexual dysfunction. This belief stems from the holistic view of the body in TCM, where the kidneys are thought to play a crucial role in overall vitality, including sexual health. However, Western medicine tends to separate these functions, focusing on the physiological aspects of kidney function and sexual performance independently.

From a Western medical perspective, kidney function is primarily assessed through blood tests measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, along with urine tests and imaging studies. Normal results in these tests typically indicate that the kidneys are functioning well. However, it is essential to understand that while kidney health is vital for overall well-being, sexual function can be influenced by a myriad of factors, including hormonal levels, psychological state, and vascular health.

Regarding your concerns about blood in urine (hematuria), this is a symptom that should not be taken lightly. Hematuria can indicate various underlying conditions, ranging from urinary tract infections to more severe issues like kidney stones or even tumors. If you are experiencing this symptom, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Self-diagnosing or attributing it solely to sexual activity or "excessive indulgence" can lead to missed diagnoses and potentially serious health issues.

As for the impact of frequent masturbation and viewing pornography on sexual health, it's important to approach this topic with a balanced perspective. Masturbation is a normal sexual activity and, for most individuals, does not lead to adverse health effects when practiced in moderation. However, excessive masturbation or reliance on pornography can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations regarding sexual performance and may contribute to issues such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation in some individuals. This is often due to the desensitization of the sexual response system, where the brain becomes conditioned to respond to specific stimuli that may not be present in real-life sexual encounters.

If you are concerned about your sexual health and the frequency of your masturbation, consider adopting a more balanced approach. This could include setting limits on the frequency of masturbation, reducing the consumption of pornography, and focusing on building healthy sexual relationships. Engaging in open communication with partners about sexual desires and concerns can also enhance sexual experiences and reduce anxiety related to performance.

In summary, while there may be some connections between kidney health and sexual function, they are not as direct as some traditional beliefs suggest. It is essential to consider a holistic view of health, where both physical and psychological factors play significant roles. If you have specific health concerns, especially symptoms like hematuria, seeking medical advice is crucial. A healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance and treatment options based on a comprehensive assessment of your health.

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