Is It Safe to Have Sex After a Heart Attack? Experts Explain:

Recovery from a heart attack is different for every person. And so are the side effects of a diagnosis of heart disease. However, to be intimate with your partner in the bedroom, you may first need to discuss with your doctor since there are factors that you have to be mindful of. On the other hand, doctors say it does not necessarily mean you have to abstain from sex and being intimate.

Even though it may be helpful to think about the risks and benefits of sex the same way you would a workout, experts say it is not required to abstain from it totally.

Sexual activity is like any other physical activity that increases your blood pressure and heart rate. While sex is usually safe with any heart condition, it is always better to talk with your doctor concerning any symptom you may have during lovemaking.

Studies say sex releases endorphins that help counter depression and anxiety that increase the risk of heart disease. For men in particular, lack of a partner can also be a risk factor. All of this adds up to evidence that sex is great for overall health, including cardiovascular health. Research also says penile-vaginal sexual intercourse increases your heart’s demand for oxygen and elevates your heart rate and blood pressure to levels comparable to climbing two flights of stairs.

The highest levels are the 10-15 seconds prior to reaching orgasm.

How to ease into intimacy?

Doctors say when recovering, you can ease into physical intimacy, starting with holding hands, kissing, and cuddling. If you experience emotional concerns around sex after a heart attack, the following tips can be helpful:

A heart attack or condition can alter your sexual life, and you can resume sexual activity at your own pace
Discuss your feelings and concerns with a sexual partner
Attempt to have sex in a relaxed setting free of possible interruptions
Engaging in foreplay allows a person’s heart rate and blood pressure to increase gradually

Times when you should abstain from any intimate relations

Doctors say it is important to know that living with a heart condition does not mean that sex is dangerous. However, you need to take a backseat from any heavy physical exertion, including being intimate if you have any of these signs:

Chest pain or angina
Breathlessness or shortness of breath
Irregular heartbeat
Nausea
Indigestion
Insomnia or sleep troubles
Fatigue and tiredness

How does heart disease impact sexual function?

According to doctors, a diagnosis of heart issues can impact your se life in many ways. While reduced blood flow can lead to erectile dysfunction in men and sexual arousal difficulties in women, both men and women can also have trouble reaching orgasm.

Also, the toll heart disease takes on your mental health indirectly affects your sexual health as well. Doctors say most heart patients suffer from stress, depression, and anxiety. You may also become less physically active than you were before, which can affect your sexual desire and performance.