Sex and Heart Disease

Having heart disease, a heart attack, or undergoing heart surgery does not mean an end to a satisfying sex life. A common myth is that sex will bring on a heart attack or cause sudden death. Sex is not really risky for the heart. In fact, if the patient doesn't get short of breath, have chest pain, or get tired when climbing 2 flights of stairs, the heart can meet the demands needed for sex. A patient is usually able to resume sexual activity 3-4 weeks after a heart attack and 2-3 weeks after heart surgery.

• Be rested and relaxed. A good time may be early morning after a restful night's sleep or during the day after a nap.
• Wait 2-3 hours after a heavy meal or an alcoholic drink, since these activities already increase the work on the heart.
• How often the patient has sex depends on each individual and previous habits.
• Start out slowly. Sexual foreplay lets the heart rate and blood pressure increase more slowly; it's like warming up before exercising.
• For the first few months avoid positions where the body is supported with the arms for a long time during sex.
• Do not try major changes in sexual activity if they make either partner tired or anxious. Anxiety and fatigue cause the heart to work harder.
• The patient should discuss with his doctor any angina experienced during sexual intercourse. Nitroglycerine may be prescribed to be taken before engaging in sexual activity.
• Any changes occurring in sexual desire and/or function should be discussed with the doctor. This change could be related to medications. Never discontinue medications without consulting the doctor. Dosages can often be adjusted or a different medication prescribed to alleviate problems.
• Expect a decrease in sexual desire after a heart attack or surgery. This is normal and should only be temporary.
• If the patient is uncomfortable about resuming sexual activities after he feels is an appropriate length of time, he should discuss this with his doctor.