Can damp-heat lead to decreased sexual function?

Generally speaking, whether damp-heat can lead to a decline in sexual function depends on the specific circumstances. When damp-heat affects the kidney and liver meridians, which are related to reproductive function, it may cause a decline in sexual function. However, if the damp-heat is confined to the spleen, stomach, intestines, and other areas without affecting the reproductive organs, it usually does not lead to a decline in sexual function. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If damp-heat flows downward and invades the kidney and liver meridians, it may interfere with the normal function of the reproductive system. The kidneys govern reproduction, and the liver meridian encircles the genital area. After being invaded by damp-heat, symptoms such as dampness and itching of the scrotum, short and reddish urination, and discomfort in the perineal area may occur. Long-term effects may impair reproductive function, leading to decreased libido or abnormalities in erection and ejaculation, which can subsequently cause a decline in sexual function.

If damp-heat is confined only to the middle jiao, manifesting as symptoms of damp-heat in the spleen and stomach such as abdominal distension, bitter taste, and sticky mouth, or only causing liver-gallbladder damp-heat symptoms such as flank pain without spreading downward to affect the kidney and liver meridians or directly impacting the reproductive system, it will not lead to a decline in sexual function.

In daily life, one should maintain a light diet, eat less spicy and greasy food, and avoid internal generation of damp-heat. At the same time, maintaining regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "作息" in English, but since it's not clear in the context, it's better to translate it as "rest and work patterns" or "daily routines") and engaging in appropriate exercise can help eliminate damp-heat. Keeping the genital area clean and dry can also reduce localized damp-heat issues.