You might not be comfortable with discussing sex and heart disease with your partner, much less with your doctor. Believe it or not, physicians also might not know much about this area or feel awkward about discussing it with you. Dr.Chapunoff , a cardiologist in private practice in Pompano Beach, Florida, states that doctors don’t have the time or personality to dig into this issue.
Well, should or shouldn’t you have sex when you have heart disease? Is it safe? Is it beneficial? First, remember that sex is a cardiovascular workout. And staying physically active is recommended because it benefits your overall health. Besides, who wouldn’t want to do “this” type of a workout? The other side to sex being a cardiovascular workout is that: it is a work-out, not only for your body but for your heart as well.
After experiencing a heart attack, cardiologists typically advise patients to abstain from sex for a few weeks until they can withstand a cardiac workout. Stress tests , stress echocardiography and frequent physician checkups are recommended. And when cleared, the heart patient is given the OK to resume activities with or without certain restrictions.
The American Heart Association, AHA, has formal guidelines for resuming sexual activity after heart attacks, heart failure, stroke, coronary bypass surgery, etc.:
1. Choose a time when you're rested, relaxed and free from the stress brought on by the day's activities.
2. Wait one to three hours after eating a full meal to allow time for digestion.
3. Select a familiar, peaceful setting that's free from interruptions.
4. If prescribed by your doctor, take medicine before sexual relations.
A more detailed pamphlet is also available from the AHA. It discusses the stages of sex and its effect on the body, psychological factors, age, medications, preparation for sex, coping as a couple, experiencing symptoms during sex, when to seek counseling, myths, misconceptions, glossary, etc.
People are often embarrassed to discuss the “sex” issue with their partner and/or physician. Unfortunately, this lack of communication may make their problems worse. They may develop anxiety, depression or distance their relationship with their partner. A cardiologist, Dr. Bufalino , states that he encourages people to stay physically and sexually active because they tend to be happier folks. Resuming normal activities will increase your quality of life.
Also, sex may be an incentive for heart patients to change their lifestyle. According to Dr. Fisch , a urologist at Columbia University, “what’s good for the heart is good for in the bedroom." And vice versa, since erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular disease for men.
If the AHA Web site, its pamphlet or worse yet, your doctor, does not address this issue, you might find “Answering Your Questions About Heart Disease and Sex” by Dr.Chapunoff more informative. Review the book or scan through it at your next stop at the bookstore.
So bring lots of sex and heart disease questions to your doctor’s appointment and don’t forget to bring your significant other!