Ureteral stones are a common condition affecting individuals across all age groups. Treatment often involves either surgical removal or lithotripsy. So, how long should one avoid sexual activity after undergoing ureteral stone treatment?
1. What Are Ureteral Stones?
The urinary system consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Ureteral stones are stones that form within the ureter. Several factors increase the risk of ureteral stones, such as genetics, dietary habits, urinary tract infections, sedentary lifestyle, and inadequate water intake.
Signs and symptoms of ureteral stones may include:
- Outside a renal colic episode: Dull pain in the lower back.
- During a renal colic episode: Severe pain radiating from the back to the front and down to the genital area, with no position providing relief. Painkillers may not be effective, and the pain can lead to fever, nausea, or vomiting.
- Urinary tract infection: Fever, blood in the urine, painful urination, and frequent urination.
- Kidney failure complications: Decreased urine output, complete lack of urine, and swelling.
2. What to Do If You Have Ureteral Stones?
If ureteral stones are suspected, the patient will undergo diagnostic procedures such as abdominal ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan, or intravenous pyelography (IVP). Based on the stone's location, shape, size, and the kidney’s functional status, the doctor will determine the appropriate treatment method.
The two main treatment options for ureteral stones are:
- Non-surgical (Medical) Treatment:
- For stones <4 mm: They can often pass spontaneously.
- For stones 4–6 mm: Spontaneous passage is possible but less likely.
- For stones >6 mm: Spontaneous passage is rare.
- Surgical or Interventional Treatments:
- Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): Suitable for stones <20 mm near the kidney. High-frequency shock waves break the stones into small fragments.
- Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy: Used for hard stones of small to medium size or when ESWL is ineffective. A ureteroscope is passed through the urethra to the bladder and ureter to break the stone with a laser.
- Percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Involves creating a small skin incision to access the kidney and break the stone.
- Laparoscopic ureterolithotomy: Requires general anesthesia. Small incisions are made in the flank area to access and remove the stone.
- Open surgery: Reserved for very large stones or when minimally invasive methods fail.
3. How Long Should You Avoid Sexual Activity After Ureteral Stone Surgery?
After undergoing stone removal procedures, many patients wonder when they can resume sexual activity. The answer depends on the method of stone removal:
- After ESWL: Patients can resume sexual activity approximately 1–2 weeks after the stones are completely passed.
- After percutaneous nephrolithotomy or ureteroscopic laser lithotripsy: Patients should wait until the JJ stent is removed, which typically occurs one month post-surgery.
4. Post-Lithotripsy Care Tips
Ureteral stones tend to recur. After successful removal, patients should take proactive steps to prevent recurrence through lifestyle and dietary changes.
- Drink an average of 2 liters of water per day (adjust according to environmental temperature).
- Limit consumption of foods high in citrate, oxalate, red meat, cheese, and organ meats.
- Address urinary tract abnormalities such as strictures, infections, or functional issues.
- Engage in regular exercise, avoid prolonged sitting, and never delay urination.
- Visit a hospital promptly if you experience back pain or unusual urinary symptoms.
Ureteral stones are one of the most common urological conditions. Patients must actively follow medical advice before, during, and after treatment to ensure safety and avoid complications. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any concerns or questions about ureteral stones.
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