Sexuality after a heart attack

Less than 20% of those affected talk to their cardiologist about when sexuality after Heart attack is possible again.

A better Nutrition and physical fitness, reducing excess weight or coping with the psychological consequences of a heart attack seem to be more important to heart attack patients.

In fact, sexual activity is important for a good quality of life for men and women with heart disease, regardless of age.

Sex is not dangerous for the heart

Climbing two flights of stairs or a slow jog are comparable to the physical exertion of sex. Although your heart rate and blood pressure increase, it is still a normal strain on the heart. This is why less than 1% of all heart attacks occur during sexual intercourse.

After a heart attack, the heart needs time to recover

Every patient recovers differently. Therefore, together with the Doctor determine when one can be sexually active again after a heart attack.

Sexual activity can be possible again after just a few days if the patient is otherwise healthy and the blood supply to the heart has been fully restored. However, a rest period of one to four weeks seems sensible so that the heart medication can be properly adjusted.

After open-heart bypass surgery, you should refrain from any sexual activity for six to eight weeks so that the breastbone (sternum) can heal in peace.

Testing performance after a heart attack

How the heart behaves during light to normal physical exertion can be observed after a heart attack with a Stress ECG as part of a health check If no symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, cardiac arrhythmia or drop in blood pressure occur during the test, you can discuss with your doctor whether you can resume your normal sex life.

rehabilitation measures after a heart attack

Cardiac rehabilitation usually consists of various elements, including Nutritional consultation , sports training, weight loss and psychological counseling. To ensure that the heart rate does not increase too much during physical exertion, the training workload during rehab is gradually increased. This then also has a positive effect on sexual intercourse.

Take precautions for your sex life after a heart attack

Drugs for erectile dysfunction can be safely prescribed as long as the heart disease is stable. However, the drugs should not be used together with nitro preparations, as this can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Physical Stress can be reduced by avoiding unfamiliar surroundings and unfamiliar partners. Before sex, you should be as rested as possible, avoid heavy meals and reduce alcohol consumption.

A heart attack can affect sexual function

Erection problems or vaginal dryness are not uncommon, and problems such as lack of desire, anxiety or depression can also occur. Sexual difficulties after a heart attack can be minimized and sex life can also be improved. Some medications prescribed after a heart attack are suspected of affecting sexuality. However, there is no evidence of this. The doctor can adjust the medication.

However, it is often more useful to talk to a doctor first to determine physical or psychological trigger for sexual problems. The doctor can advise when sex can be resumed safely. This reduces the fears that put additional strain on intimate relationships.

Physical fitness and good health are essential foundations for a satisfying sexuality.