Q: Why is it that my boyfriend, battling with diabetes and now the first stage of kidney failure, has no desire to have sex or any interest in me?

A:Patients with kidney disease have underlying chemical and hormonal changes which affect the blood circulation, nerve function and the energy level. All these can contribute to a lowering of sexual desire. Besides, accompanying physical and emotional changes can make one feel sexually less attractive. Some of the blood pressure lowering medications can affect sexual function. Poorly controlled diabetes and its related complications are known to cause a loss of sexual drive via poor circulation, abnormal nerve function and loss of energy. However, based on limited clinical information you have provided, it is not possible to comment on the role of your boyfriend’s kidney disease towards his loss of sexual desire. He should consult his doctor for a complete evaluation.