When Is It Safe To Have Sex After A Heart Attack?

Kendra James, RN — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 20:14:10 +0000

Wade at Healthbolt has inspired me to write once again about that taboo subject of sexual relations. When I think about it, my discharge teaching with an acute MI patient is focused on nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes, but doesn’t touch on sex. Don’t you think that should be a valid thought? “When is it safe to have sex again?”

Well, lucky for ya’all, I have done my research on the horizontal hookie pookie.

Sexual intercourse is considered as mild to moderate exercise. It takes about as much energy as walking up a couple flights of stairs. Most people can safely resume sexual activity as soon as they leave the hospital. In some cases, your doctor may advise a delay until your strength improves.

Fear and anxiety about sex after a heart attack is to be expected. A few suggestions to help you on your lovin’ way…

Ask your doctor for his or her suggestions. Do not have sex right after a heavy meal. Try to have sex only when you feel rested. Focus on touching, sharing, and closeness by using sex play, mutual pleasuring (mutual masturbation), and self-pleasuring (masturbation) to orgasm.

What do I think is the most important component to getting back in the game? Talking! Share your concerns and worries with your partner. Let the experience be something that you share together and brings you closer. After all, sex is all about “togetherness”!