Sex and the heart
A major concern that many people, both men and their partners, have is that someone with heart disease is not fit to engage in sexual activity. “Heart disease is not a ‘contraindication’ for sexual activity. The need is proper assessment,” says Dr. Lasantha Malavige, allaying common fears that sexual activity could precipitate a heart attack.
If the person is anxious when engaging in sexual relations, the chances of suffering a heart attack increase. When there is unhappiness, depression could set in which, in turn, is a risk factor for a heart attack. It’s a vicious circle.
He gives out a few simple guidelines. Citing the example of a person who exercises regularly, he points out that if he can tolerate “moderate” exercise, then he is fit to have sexual relations. “Moderate,” he details as either walking one mile in 20 minutes or climbing up and down two flights of stairs briskly without cardiac symptoms. If, however, cardiac symptoms such as chest pain (angina), palpitations and breathlessness are experienced, then it would be a clear “No, no” for sex until assessed by a doctor.
If a person is not exercising and uncertain about the status of his heart, he should get himself checked by a cardiologist and undergo an exercise ECG (electrocardiogram). If he can go up to Stage 2 of the four stages, he should be able to engage in sex without fear. “Generally fit for sex,” would be the diagnosis, it is learnt.
According to Dr. Malavige major studies in Germany and also Japan have found that those with heart issues would not go into crisis if they have sexual relations with their ‘established’ partners. Most cardiac deaths occur when sexual activity is with an extramarital partner as in these situations the victim is very likely to be under the influence of liquor, after a heavy meal, in an unknown or unfamiliar setting, with an unknown or less known partner who would probably be younger. This causes undue excitement, needing greater cardiac (heart) effort.
“The continuation of sexual activity with an ‘established’ partner, meanwhile, is beneficial to the health. Therefore, it is important to sort out whatever cardiac, medical or sexual problems a person has and continue to engage in sexual activity,” he adds.