Sex After a Heart Attack? New AHA Guidelines

A recent study shows that following a heart attack, many are uncertain if it is safe to engage in sexual activity any longer.

"Patients are anxious and often afraid sex will trigger another cardiac event - but the topic sometimes gets passed over because of embarrassment or discomfort," said lead author Dr. Elaine Steinke, a professor of nursing at Wichita State University in Kansas.

Fear in the bedroom is a common side effect following cardiac or stroke rehabilitation in both men and women, according to the study. Steinke and colleagues point out that more doctors should help to initiate conversation to alleviate stress felt by patients following such events following stress tests that the patient is healthy enough to endure sexual activity. Steinke also suggests that some physicians could actually benefit from studying information on how to counsel patients regarding sexual health when they have gone through this kind of health issue by possibly offering tips and advice.

In fact, just Monday, the American Heart Association and the European Society of Cardiology released new guidelines on how to counsel patients on resuming sex after such a problem has occurred.  

"Starting a conversation about sex can be easily included in patient discussions, particularly when discussing sex as part of recommendations for exercise. All healthcare providers should be ready and willing to address these areas," said Steinke. "That includes cardiologists, primary care practitioners, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physical therapists."

Steinke also recommends that when making sexual activity performed again for the first time following the incident should be committed in a familiar setting so as to minimize any cardiac stress associated with the activity.

Though heart medication may lower a person's sex drive, researchers advise that patients speak with doctors before discontinuing or interrupting their use to become sexually active again.

More information regarding the study can be found in the journals Circulation and the European Heart Journal.