Sexual Life After Bypass and Valve Surgery

One of the subjects our patients feel shy about after heart surgery, but rarely raise, is when and how they can return to their sexual life. In this article I will set out the current recommendations on this subject openly.

When Can Sexual Life Be Resumed?

After an operation without complications, if your general condition is comfortable enough to climb two flights of stairs (an effort level of roughly 3-5 METs), returning to sexual activity is generally safe; this is usually possible a few weeks after the operation. After classic open surgery we recommend that you prefer positions in which the breastbone will not be under pressure.

Does Exertion Harm the Heart?

A current statement from the American Heart Association notes that in stable cardiac patients the level of exertion triggered by sexual activity is similar to daily light-to-moderate exercise (for example brisk walking) and that it poses no additional risk in patients who can tolerate this level of exertion. In other words, with the right timing and a stable cardiac condition, sexual activity does not harm the heart.

Interaction Between Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Medicines and Heart Medicines

Some of our male patients may experience difficulty with erection (erectile dysfunction) after the operation or because of heart disease; since the medicines used to treat this condition (PDE5 inhibitors) may cause a severe drop in blood pressure, particularly in patients taking nitrate-group heart medicines, we recommend that you always consult us before starting such a medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can sexual activity lead to a heart attack? In stable, well-controlled cardiac patients this risk is very low; what really matters is that your general condition and cardiac status are stable.

When should I consult my doctor? If you experience chest pain, excessive shortness of breath or palpitations during sexual activity, we recommend that you always let us know.

Do I have to talk about this subject with my doctor? We definitely recommend that you do; it is an important part of your quality of life and your relationship, and it is a subject you can discuss in confidence.

Conclusion

Sexual life is a natural and important part of quality of life after heart surgery. With the right timing and a stable cardiac condition, most of our patients can safely return to it.

You can make an appointment to discuss your questions about your sexual life after surgery.

References

1. Levine GN, Steinke EE, Bakaeen FG, et al. Sexual Activity and Cardiovascular Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2012;125(8):1058-1072.