Sex and Heart Health: Tips for Patients

For individuals aiming to resume an active sex life after a heart attack or heart surgery, concerns about their cardiac health often loom large. However, recent studies indicate that sexual activity is not necessarily contraindicated for heart patients. Still, caution and gradual re-engagement are advised. Specialists from the South Baltimore Hospital in the United States offer several recommendations for those who have experienced cardiac events.

The first attempt at intimacy after a heart attack or surgery should be gentle, and it doesn't necessarily need to culminate in full sexual intercourse. If cuddling and caressing don't trigger any symptoms related to heart activity (such as chest pain or shortness of breath), gradually transitioning to more typical sexual practices is deemed safe.

Avoid sexual activity when feeling fatigued. Men tend to experience better and more enduring erections in the morning or after a short daytime nap.

Stick to familiar and comfortable positions during sexual activity. Avoid overexertion and experiments that may strain the heart.

Maintain a comfortable room temperature during sexual encounters, as extreme cold or heat can pose additional challenges to the heart.

Wait at least 2-3 hours after meals and at least three hours after consuming alcohol before engaging in sexual activity.

Heart patients should refrain from being in the superior position during intercourse. If lying down causes difficulty breathing, try a seated position.

If experiencing rapid heartbeat and breathing 10-15 minutes post-sex, dizziness, mild headaches, irregular heartbeat, fainting, chest pain, or weakness the next day, seek medical attention promptly.