Objective To explore the reasons of self-growth behaviors of patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) therapy and to provide better self-growth behaviors guidance for patients. Methods Using the phenomenological method of qualitative research, 22 patients on MHD therapy were recruited for semi-structured in-depth interviews. The interview data were analyzed with Colaizzi′s seven-step analytical method. Results The reasons of self-growth behaviors of patients on MHD therapy could be summarized into 5 themes: to alleviate disease discomfort, to adapt to life, responsibility and obligation, self demands and disease identification. Conclusion In view of the problems existing in the process of MHD patients′ self-growth, medical staff can make intervention and help patients take better control of their diets and make reasonable exercise plan, promote patients′self-efficacy and increase patients′ family support, in an effort to boost patients′self-growth.