What is the link between heart disease and sex?

Intercourse is the ultimate expression of sexuality and is a common activity that offers an opportunity for people to free themselves from stress and tension.

So, ever heard of sexual problems in heart disease patients? Well, if not, this piece is for you.

Sexual desire may decrease leading to inhibition of feelings and failure of erection after the heart attack or surgery especially men. Also, such problems do occur in as many as 40% of happily married normal couples.

Causes of sexual problems in heart disease:

1. Alcohol and tobacco
2. Anxiety
3. Depression
4. Pre-existing sexual trouble
5. Physical de-conditioning
6. Few therapeutic drugs

Anxiety and depression are the two primary psychological reactions interfere with resumption of normal sex after a heart attack. And below is the list of few practical tips to regain a normal sex life.

1. A proper communication with your partner
2. Don’t skip the foreplay
3. Environment matters! Good to have a relaxed and restful environment with room temperature. Extreme temperatures can create more stress on the heart.
4. Resume it slowly
5. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 2 hours after a heavy meal to minimise strain on heart

For information and consultation:

Dr. M. Srinivas Rao
MBBS, MD ( internal medicine)
PGDID ( infectious diseases)
Certified sexual medicine expert