It is common knowledge that the frequency and progression of kidney disease between men and women is very different. Numerous investigational models of chronic kidney disease (CKD) have demonstrated the various effects of gender. The important variances between men and women are due mainly to sex hormones. Estrogen has deep impact on the renin-angiotensin system, creating change in the renal function and structures.

14% of women have chronic kidney disease as compared to 12% of men. Other findings published in the October edition of PLOS Medicine reports that 59% of men were on dialysis while only 41% of women were. The study found that men were also more likely to get kidney transplants.

There are ailments specific to women like hypertension and acute kidney failure in pregnancy and gestational diabetes. Women are more likely to get urinary infections due to the shorter urethra (tube connecting the urinary bladder to opening outside the body). Also, women having unprotected sex may have recurring urinary infection. If left untreated, urinary tract infection may spread to kidneys causing high fever, painful loins and can even lead to kidney failure. Urinary infection during pregnancy may affect the growth of the foetus, premature delivery or even may result in its death.

Difficult pregnancies linked to high blood pressure and leakage of protein in urine, bleeding too much after delivery of child may also lead to acute kidney failure, affecting the function of kidneys. Women may also contract severe infection when they undergo abortion performed by quacks, posing a threat not only to their kidneys but also to their lives.

 Symptoms of kidney damage include, blood in urine, higher or lowered frequency of urination, swelling in legs feet or ankles, feeling tired and fatigued, loss of sleep or trouble sleeping, and episodes of nausea and vomiting.