1 Patry, C., Webb, N. J. A., Feißt, M., et al. (2024). Kidney Transplantation in Children and Adolescents With C3 Glomerulopathy or Immune Complex Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis: A Real-World Study Within the CERTAIN Research Network. Pediatric Nephrology, 39(12), 3569–3580.
2 Latropoulos, P., Noris, M., Mele, C., et al. (2016). Complement gene variants determine the risk of immunoglobulin-associated MPGN and C3 glomerulopathy and predict long-term renal outcome. Molecular Immunology, 71, 131–142.
3 Bomback, A. S., Santoriello, D., Avasare, R. S., et al. (2018). C3 glomerulonephritis and dense deposit disease share a similar disease course in a large United States cohort of patients with C3 glomerulopathy. Kidney International, 93(4), 977–985.
4 National Kidney Foundation. (2025). Immune Complex Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis (IC- MPGN). Retrieved from https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/immune-complex-membranoproliferative-glomerulonephritis-ic mpgn
5 Noris, M., & Remuzzi, G. (2024). C3G and Ig-MPGN—treatment standard. Nephrology, Dialysis,Transplantation, 39(2), 202–214.
6 Dąbrowska-Bender, M., Dykowska, G., Żuk, W., Milewska, M., & Staniszewska, A. (2018). The impact on quality of life of dialysis patients with renal insufficiency. Patient Preference and Adherence, 12, 577–583.
Relationships and Emotional Connections When Living with C3G and Primary IC-MPGN
Living with a rare kidney condition such as Complement 3 Glomerulopathy (C3G) or primary Immune Complex-Mediated Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis (IC-MPGN) can influence different parts of your life - including relationships and family planning. These are personal areas of wellbeing that can sometimes take a backseat to the demands of day-to-day care.
It may sometimes feel as though others don’t fully understand what you are going through. Friends, family or partners might be unsure how best to help, which can lead to moments of frustration. With understanding, open communication, and the right support, many people can maintain strong relationships.
Building Healthy Relationships
Research into long-term kidney conditions shows that good communication and emotional connection play a central role in maintaining healthy relationships.1 Being open about your needs, limits and feelings can help deepen understanding and strengthen trust. For instance, letting others know when you need rest or space can prevent strain2.
Over time, many people find that their relationships adapt – and in some cases, grow stronger as they and their loved ones learn to navigate challenges together. Feeling like you’re part of a team can bring a powerful sense of resilience and shared purpose.
Connection
Living with C3G or primary IC-MPGN can sometimes influence how you feel about your body, your confidence or your desire for closeness. These changes are completely understandable and often may vary with how you’re feeling.
Ways to Maintain Connection
Here are some ideas to help you maintain connection. Choose the ones that feel right for you and your partner:
- Share how you’re feeling. Opening up can ease anxiety and build understanding.
Using simple, honest phrases can open an empathetic conversation and ease tension - Nurture emotional connections. Enjoy shared hobbies, quiet moments or words of appreciation
If this continues to be a source of anxiety or discomfort, it may help to make an appointment with a healthcare professional.3 Renal teams often have counsellors or psychologists with experience in supporting people living with chronic disease.
Fertility and Family Planning
Many people living with C3G or primary IC-MPGN have questions about fertility, pregnancy and family planning. Parenthood is possible for many, though changes in kidney function can sometimes influence fertility and pregnancy, depending on the individual.4,5
Every situation is unique, and it can be helpful to speak with your healthcare team when considering starting or growing a family. They can explain how kidney health may affect fertility or pregnancy and provide guidance tailored to your individual needs and care plan.
For some, the tailored care plan they’re following brings hope for the future. Katharina, is living with C3G and shares: “I hope that I can live a pretty normal life as I am doing now. Although (despite) of my condition, I hope that I can have a family, have some kids.”
Further Resources
For more information, support, or to connect with others who understand, the following organisations may be helpful:
- CompCure: Dedicated to complement-related kidney diseases, with patient and caregiver networks.
- NephCure: Explore NephCure’s Virtual Support Groups, thoughtfully tailored for individuals at various stages of their kidney disease journey.
- World Kidney Day: Guidance on sexual health issues in kidney disease, helping individuals understand, manage, and improve intimacy and relationships.
- Kidney.org: Covers topics related to sexual health and kidney disease.
- National Kidney Foundation: Addresses how chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its care can affect sexual function, providing guidance for healthcare professionals and individuals