If you recover well after your heart attack, you can have sex again when you feel ready. This is usually after about four weeks.
No increased risk
You and your partner may be concerned about having sex after your heart attack. Many people believe it might be too strenuous.
However, there's no evidence to suggest that having sex increases your risk of another heart attack. Once you’ve recovered, you’re no more likely to trigger another heart attack through sexual activity than someone who has never had a heart attack.
Regular exercise and physical activity are good for the heart and, for most people, continue to be recommended after a heart attack. Like any form of physical activity, having sex can make your heart work harder, by increasing your heart rate and blood pressure.
When to get advice
If you get chest pains (angina) during sex, you should tell your GP.
After a heart attack, some men have problems getting or maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction). These problems can be caused by emotional stress or, rarely, by medication such as beta-blockers. However, impotence can also have other causes. Speak to your GP who can check what is causing your problems and advise if you need any treatment.
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