When diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease phase 5, patients are dialyzed to remove waste products and toxins from the blood that kidneys can´t longer filter. Although hemodialysis removes most of the toxins and allows health improvement, patients continue reporting a low quality of life and limitations in their functional independence.
Within the context of quality of life, sexuality is an important factor; a high incidence of sexual dysfunctions has been reported among hemodialysis patients. Although poorly addressed, it impacts family and couple relationships, emotions, and mental health.
Exercise interventions improve physical function and quality of life, and since some of the mechanisms involved in exercise are also involved in sexual activity, an exercise intervention could be an effective approach to sexual dysfunctions without the risk and stigma of sexual or drug therapy.
Therefore the study aims to implement an intradialytic exercise program involving aerobic, resistance, and Kegel exercises (specific to the pelvic floor) and determine its effects on quality of life, sexual function, and sexual satisfaction in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
