Last Updated on October 31, 2025 by

Recent studies show a link between sex and passing kidney stones, mainly for small stones in the ureter. At Liv Hospital, we focus on patient care that uses the latest research and evidence. This approach helps us give the best care possible.

Research suggests that sex or ejaculation might help small stones move out. We look into how sex affects kidney stone passage. This is important for people with kidney stones.

We want to fully understand how sex impacts kidney stone passage and health. By looking at new research, we aim to highlight this important part of kidney stone management.

Key Takeaways

• Sexual activity may influence the passage of small distal ureteral stones.
• Regular ejaculation could modestly increase the likelihood of spontaneous stone passage.
• Our care approach at Liv Hospital integrates the latest research on natural methods for managing kidney stones.
• Understanding the link between sexual activity and kidney stone passage can inform patient care.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between sexual activity and kidney stone passage.

Understanding Kidney Stones: A Brief Overview

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts. They form inside the kidneys. These stones can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting, greatly affecting a person’s life.

What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones form when urine’s mineral balance is off. This imbalance leads to the formation of crystals like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. It can happen due to dehydration, diet, or genetics.

Common factors that contribute to kidney stone formation include:

• Inadequate hydration
• A diet high in animal protein and salt
• Family history of kidney stones
• Certain medical conditions, such as hyperparathyroidism

Common Symptoms of Kidney Stones

The symptoms of kidney stones vary. They depend on the stone’s size and location. Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills if an infection is present
• Blood in the urine
• Frequent or painful urination

Pain management is a critical aspect of treating kidney stones, as the pain can be severe and debilitating.

Types and Sizes of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can be classified into different types based on their composition. The most common types include:

The size of kidney stones can vary a lot. They can be small, like sand, or large, causing blockages.

The Challenge of Passing Kidney Stones

The journey of a kidney stone through the urinary tract is complex. It’s influenced by many factors. Understanding this process and the elements that affect it is key.

The Natural Journey of a Kidney Stone

A kidney stone starts in the kidney, forming from concentrated minerals. It can cause a lot of pain, felt in the back or side. This pain can spread to the lower abdomen or groin.

The stone’s journey is slow, taking days to weeks. This depends on its size and where it is in the urinary tract.

Factors That Affect Stone Passage

Several things can affect how easily a kidney stone passes. Stone size is very important. Larger stones are harder to pass than smaller ones.

The location of the stone in the urinary tract also matters. Stones closer to the bladder are easier to pass. Hydration is also key. Drinking enough water helps the stone move by increasing urine production.

Other factors include the shape and surface characteristics of the stone. Smoother stones are easier to pass than jagged ones. Anatomical variations and urinary tract obstructions can also affect passage.

Knowing these factors helps manage the challenges of passing kidney stones. Healthcare providers can offer better guidance and treatment based on this knowledge.

Does Ejaculating Help Pass Kidney Stones? The Clinical Evidence

Research is showing that ejaculating might help pass kidney stones. Studies are finding that sex can aid in stone passage. This is a big discovery for those dealing with kidney stones.

Recent Research Findings

New studies are uncovering the benefits of ejaculation for kidney stones. Multiple randomized controlled trials show sex can help stones pass. For example, a study found that sex 3-4 times weekly helped more than not having sex at all.

A leading researcher says, “Sex can help with kidney stones, mainly for smaller stones.” Many clinical trials agree on this point.

Statistical Success Rates from Clinical Trials

Success rates from trials are impressive. Studies show regular ejaculation boosts stone passage chances. For instance, one trial found a success rate of over 60% in the sex group, versus under 30% in the control group.

“The use of sexual activity as a therapeutic adjunct represents an innovative approach to managing kidney stones,” according to a recent meta-analysis.

Comparison with Control Groups

Comparing groups, the sex group’s success is clear. Studies show regular ejaculation increases stone passage rates. This means less need for medical help.

As we look deeper into the evidence, the benefits for kidney stone patients are clear. Sex could be a natural, non-invasive treatment option.

The Science Behind Sexual Activity and Stone Passage

To understand how sex helps move kidney stones, we need to look at what happens in the body during orgasm. Recent studies have shown how sex and the body’s stone-passing mechanisms work together.

Physiological Mechanisms During Orgasm

Orgasm brings about changes in the body that might help move kidney stones. One key change is the release of certain chemicals. The release of nitric oxide is very important. It relaxes the muscles in the ureter, making it easier for stones to move.

Pelvic Muscle Contractions and Pressure Changes

The muscles in the pelvis also contract during orgasm. This can increase pressure in the pelvic area. This pressure and the rhythmic muscle contractions help stones move. This is most helpful for stones in the lower ureter.

How These Forces Affect Stone Movement

The relaxed muscles and increased pressure work together to help stones move. This combination helps dislodge and move stones through the ureter. It can also lower the risk of problems caused by stuck stones.

Understanding these body changes helps us see how sex can help with kidney stones. The science shows that sex can be a helpful addition to treatment, along with other methods.

Effectiveness Based on Stone Location and Size

Research shows that where and how big a kidney stone is affects how well sex can help it pass. The shape of the urinary tract and the stone’s features matter a lot. They decide how sex can help push the stone out.

Distal Ureteral Stones vs. Other Locations

Studies reveal that sex works best for stones near the bladder. Stones near the bladder are more likely to pass with sex because of the body’s changes during orgasm. These changes make the ureter contract and increase pressure in the urinary tract.

But, stones in other places, like the kidney or the upper ureter, don’t get as much help from sex. The body’s response to orgasm is stronger for stones near the bladder. This is because of the anatomy and the forces at play during orgasm.

Size Limitations: What Works for Small vs. Larger Stones

The size of the stone also matters a lot. Small stones, usually under 5 mm, are more likely to pass with sex. This is because they are smaller and easier to move through the urinary tract.

Bigger stones, though, might need more than just sex to pass. Sex can help by making the ureter contract, but more medical help might be needed for bigger stones to pass safely and quickly.

Knowing the size and location of the stone is key to finding the best treatment. This includes understanding when sex might help.

Sexual Intercourse vs. Masturbation for Stone Passage

Many people think sex can help pass kidney stones. But which one is better? We look at how effective sexual intercourse and masturbation are for passing stones.

Comparative Effectiveness

Studies show both sex and masturbation can help pass kidney stones. They both cause pelvic muscle contractions and pressure changes. But, the strength of these contractions can differ.

A study found that both methods can be effective when done regularly. It’s not the type of activity that matters most. Instead, doing it 3-4 times a week is key. People who did it that often had a better chance of passing their stones.

Recommended Frequency for Optimal Results

To get the most out of sex for passing stones, do it often. Studies say 3-4 times per week is best.

The table shows how often you should have sex to pass stones. Going from 1-2 times to 3-4 times a week makes a big difference. But, going more than 4 times doesn’t make as big of a difference.

So, aim for 3-4 times per week. It’s a good balance between being effective and being doable for most people.

Can You Have Sex When You Have Kidney Stones? Safety Considerations

For those with kidney stones, knowing if sex is safe is key. Kidney stones can be very painful. So, it’s important to think carefully before having sex.

Pain Management During Sexual Activity

Managing pain is key when you have kidney stones and want to have sex. Know your limits and talk to your partner about any pain.

• Be mindful of positions that may exacerbate the pain.
• Consider taking a warm bath before sexual activity to help relax the muscles.
• Use pain relief medications as directed by your healthcare provider.

When to Avoid Sexual Activity with Kidney Stones

There are times when you should not have sex with kidney stones. If you have severe pain, nausea, or vomiting, it’s best to avoid sex.

1. If you have a fever or signs of infection, seek medical attention before engaging in sexual activity.
2. Avoid sexual activity if you have severe pain that doesn’t respond to medication.
3. Be cautious if you have a history of complications with kidney stones.

Potential Complications to Be Aware Of

Sex may help pass kidney stones, but there are risks. These include more pain or discomfort, and injury to the urinary tract.

Key considerations include:

• The size and location of the kidney stone.
• Your overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions.
• The level of pain or discomfort you’re experiencing.

In conclusion, sex can be part of life with kidney stones, but health and safety come first. Always talk to your healthcare provider for advice tailored to you.

Sexual Activity vs. Medication for Kidney Stone Treatment

The debate on using sex or medication to help pass kidney stones is growing. It’s important to know how each method works and what results they bring.

Comparison with Tamsulosin and Other Alpha-Blockers

Tamsulosin is a drug often used to help pass kidney stones. Studies show that sex can be just as good as tamsulosin in this area. A study found that sex and tamsulosin work equally well for passing stones.

Some key findings include:

• Sex and tamsulosin have similar success rates for stone passage.
• The success of both methods depends on the stone’s size and location.
• Using sex and tamsulosin together might help pass stones even better.

Combining Sexual Activity with Medical Treatments

Research is showing that mixing sex with medical treatments can be beneficial. This mix might make passing stones more likely.

The benefits of this mix include:

1. Higher chances of passing stones because of the combined effects.
2. Maybe needing less or shorter medical treatment.
3. Better results for patients with a more complete treatment plan.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Looking at the cost of treatments is key. Sex is a natural, low-cost option compared to medication.

A cost analysis shows that:

• Sex is free or very cheap.
• Drugs like tamsulosin can be expensive, even with insurance.
• Using sex and medicine together might save money by avoiding more costly treatments.

In conclusion, both sex and medication have roles in treating kidney stones. The right choice depends on the patient’s situation and needs.

Gender Differences: Does Sex Help Pass Kidney Stones in Women?

Research on sexual activity and kidney stones has mainly focused on men. But, new studies show benefits for women too. The question of whether sex can help pass kidney stones in women is growing more important.

Research Specific to Female Patients

Recent studies have looked into how sexual activity affects kidney stone passage in women. They found that the muscle contractions during orgasm can help move stones. Research indicates that these effects are not limited to men, suggesting a possible benefit for women as well.

Some clinical trials have included female participants. These studies show promising results. The studies suggest that sexual activity could be a useful adjunctive treatment for women with kidney stones, mainly for those with stones in certain locations.

Anatomical Considerations

The anatomy of the urinary tract differs between men and women. In women, the urethra is shorter, which might affect how stones are passed. Yet, the muscle contractions during orgasm are similar across genders, suggesting a common mechanism for stone passage.

• The shorter urethra in women may facilitate the passage of smaller stones.
• Pelvic muscle contractions during orgasm can help dislodge stones.
• The effectiveness of sexual activity may vary based on stone size and location.

Effectiveness Rates Across Genders

Comparing the effectiveness of sexual activity in aiding kidney stone passage between men and women is complex. But, available data suggest that sexual activity can be beneficial for women, potentially to a similar extent as for men, for stones that are not too large.

It’s essential to note that individual results can vary widely. Factors such as stone size, location, and overall health play significant roles in determining the effectiveness of sexual activity as a treatment aid.

In conclusion, while more research is needed, the available evidence suggests that sexual activity could be a helpful adjunctive treatment for women with kidney stones. Women with kidney stones should discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine the best approach.

Common Myths About Sex and Kidney Stones

Many people wonder if sex can cause kidney stones. They often believe things that aren’t true, which can worry them. We want to clear up these myths and give you the right info to ease your mind.

Can Sex Cause Kidney Stones?

One big myth is that sex can lead to kidney stones. But, there’s no proof that’s true. Kidney stones usually come from not drinking enough water, what you eat, your genes, and some health issues. Sex doesn’t play a role in these.

It’s key to know that kidney stones are mainly caused by:

• Dehydration
• Dietary factors
• Genetic predisposition
• Certain medical conditions

Sex might make you sweat and change your body a bit. But it doesn’t help create kidney stones.

Can Kidney Stones Be Passed Sexually?

Another myth is that you can pass kidney stones to someone else through sex. This is not true. Kidney stones are hard, mineral deposits in your kidneys. They can’t be passed on through touching, including sex.

It’s important to tell patients that kidney stones are a personal health issue. They are not something you can catch from someone else.

Debunking Other Misconceptions

There are more myths about sex and kidney stones. Some think certain sex positions can help pass stones or make them worse. But, there’s no proof that sex makes kidney stones worse or that certain positions help pass them.

We suggest patients stick to proven ways to manage kidney stones. This includes drinking lots of water, eating right, and listening to their doctors.

By clearing up these myths, we hope to lessen worry. We want patients to get the right info and care for their health.

Practical Guidelines for Using Sexual Activity as a Treatment Aid

Using sexual activity to help pass kidney stones is a topic worth exploring. It’s key to know the practical steps to make it work. We’ve talked about how orgasm can help move stones along.

Recommended Approaches and Techniques

Here are some tips for using sex to aid in passing stones:

• Frequency: Try to have sex 2-3 times a week. This might up your chances of passing the stone.
• Technique: Reaching orgasm is important. The muscle contractions during orgasm can help move the stone.
• Positions: There’s no one best position, but deeper penetration might help more. It can increase pressure in the pelvic area.

Hydration and Other Complementary Strategies

Using sex to help pass stones is just part of the plan. Here are other strategies to add to it:

• Hydration: Drink lots of water, at least 8-10 glasses a day. This helps flush out the stone.
• Diet: Eat a balanced diet and avoid foods that can cause stones. This can help prevent new stones from forming.
• Physical Activity: Regular exercise is good for your urinary health. It might also help pass the stone.

When to Seek Medical Help

Even with sex and other strategies, know when to get medical help. If you have any of these symptoms, go to the doctor right away:

• Severe pain that doesn’t go away
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty urinating
• Blood in the urine

By using sex, staying hydrated, eating right, exercising, and knowing when to get medical help, you can increase your chances of passing the stone.

Conclusion: Integrating Sexual Activity into Kidney Stone Management

By taking a full approach to managing kidney stones, including sex, patients can do better. We’ve seen how sex can help stones move out of the body.

Adding sex to treatment plans is a smart move. It helps with both the physical and emotional sides of dealing with kidney stones.

In the end, a mix of medical care and lifestyle changes is key. This way, patients have a better shot at passing stones and avoiding future problems.

FAQ

References

Evaluation of the efficacy of masturbation on distal ureteral stones – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33026570/