[Changes in male sexual function during hemodialysis and after renal transplantation under psychiatric aspects (author's transl)].

20 patients with well functioning kidneys were investigated psychiatrically and had to judge on their libido and potency prior to the onset of their illness under chronic hemodialysis and after transplantation. The psychometric instrument used was the FPI (Freiburger Persönlichkeits-Inventar). The sexual activity was found to be either significantly reduced or absent in 80% during hemodialysis. Following transplantation more than 50% sexually fully recovered. In patients with persistent sexual dysfunction in the post-transplant period depressive symptoms were found four times as much as in those with a complete recovery. Psychometrically the latter characterized themselves as more active, optimistic but even as less self-critical. Therapeutic aspects are being discussed.