Sex has many physical and emotional benefits. In most cases, it is supportive of good cardiovascular health. It can also improve a person’s mood, enhance their connection with their partner, and improve their overall quality of life. As such, people may be understandably motivated to remain sexually active for as long as it is safe and does not pose a danger to their health.
If you have heart disease, it is natural to experience some apprehension about engaging in physical activities, including sex. Fortunately, according to the American Heart Association, it is probably safe to have sex when you have heart disease, as long as your condition has stabilized. Nevertheless, it is important to always follow the advice of your cardiologist or internal medicine/family medicine clinician as he or she is more familiar with your condition and your overall state of health.
In terms of physical exertion, sex is considered a moderate form of exercise that requires about the same level of energy as climbing one or two flights of stairs. This level of physical activity is usually attainable for individuals with a stabilized cardiovascular condition. However, the following are some of the most important steps a person with heart disease can take to have safe, enjoyable sex once their condition has stabilized:
- Talk to your doctor about resuming sexual activity before doing so. Even though sex might not be recommended right after surgery or a cardiac event, kissing or cuddling a partner should be okay.
- Follow your cardiac rehabilitation plan as outlined by your health care providers. This may include supervised physical activity, counseling, and/or education about heart disease.
- Make sure to take your heart medication as directed by your health care provider.
- Once you are cleared for physical activity, regular exercise can help reduce your risk of any sex-related cardiac issues.
- Be aware of the signs of a cardiac event including shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, and numbness in your limbs.
- Certain medications that you are on for your heart disease may interact with other medications used for sexual function (e.g., erectile dysfunction medications, vaginal estrogen, etc.) or birth control pills. Consult your doctor before taking any of these medications.
Regardless of whether you decide to resume sexual activity after your condition has stabilized, it is always okay to bring up sexual health concerns with your health care provider. Sexual health is an important part of a person’s overall health, so these questions and concerns are completely valid. For additional support with adjusting to the life changes that may come with heart disease, consider speaking with a therapist, counselor, or other mental health professional.
References:
American Heart Association. (2015, July 31). Sex and Heart Disease. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/sex-and-heart-disease
Manhattan Cardiology. (2022, May 9). Is it Safe to Have Sex if You Have Heart Disease? https://manhattancardiology.com/is-it-safe-to-have-sex-if-you-have-heart-disease/
Mankad, R. (2022, August 3). Is it safe to have sex if I have heart failure? Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-failure/expert-answers/heart-failure-and-sex/faq-20433732
You may also be interested in...
Did You Know?
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
July 20, 2021SMSNA Patients
Sex and Multiple Sclerosis: Barriers Between Patients and Providers
May 18, 2021Did You Know?
What Is the Average Penis Size?
June 1, 2021Blog
The Gynogram: Paving the Way for Better Postmenopausal Sex?
July 6, 2021SMSNA Patients
New Survey Finds Most Adolescents Who Have Labia Minora Surgery Are Satisfied
May 4, 2021Did You Know?
Outercourse
March 23, 2021Did You Know?
Alcohol and Temporary Erectile Dysfunction
February 2, 2021SMSNA Patients
Benefits of Sexual Activity During COVID-19 Lockdown
February 9, 2021Did You Know?
Q&A on “Blue Ball” Syndrome
January 20, 2021Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.
