For those suffering from heart disease must be mindful of many things – including certain physical activities. However, according to doctors, it does not necessarily mean you have to abstain from sex and being intimate with your partner.
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 which increases your blood pressure and heart rate. While sex is usually safe if 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.
According to another study, 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.
When should you abstain from having sex?
According to Harvard Health, 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 sex 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.
Ways to take care of your heart
A few ways to keep your heart healthy include:
- Eat a balanced and healthy diet, including all food groups
- Be active and exercise regularly
- Stay at a healthy weight
- Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke
- Control your cholesterol and blood pressure levels
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Manage stress
