Sexual intimacy is an important part of life and there are guidelines for resuming sex after a heart attack. 

If sex was no problem before your heart attack, it should be no problem after you recover. Sex with your spouse puts no more demand on your heart than climbing 1 to 2 flights of stairs or walking briskly for one mile.

The usual time span that you may have to wait to resume sex after a heart attack is 2 to 4 weeks. This time varies with everyone and you should follow your doctor’s advice. Follow common sense guidelines so that sex can be enjoyable and safe.

Helpful Hints

• Wait at least 1 hour after eating, taking a bath or shower, or exercising before you have sex. Avoid alcohol.
• Ask your doctor if you will require nitroglycerin before sex
• Avoid sex if the air where you are is very cold, very hot, or humid
• Choose a quiet, relaxed place
• Consult your physician before using VIAGRA, a medication for impotence
• Avoid stress between you and your partner.  Talk openly with each other about  your feelings
• Be patient with yourself. Don’t push yourself into sex until you and your partner are ready.

Report These Symptoms to Your Doctor

• Fast heart rate and shortness of breath that lasts 15 to 20 minutes after sex
• Chest pain during or after sex
• If you have trouble sleeping after sex or are very tired the next day
• If you have problems being aroused.