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Sexual activity and cardiovascular disease.
1Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143, USA. mdc@itsa.ucsf.edu
The American Journal of Cardiology
|November 12, 2003
Summary
Sexual activity poses a modest cardiovascular risk for men with cardiovascular disease, which can be mitigated by regular physical activity. Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors do not increase cardiovascular risk when used without organic nitrates.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sexual Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and erectile dysfunction (ED) frequently coexist.
- Assessing the cardiovascular risks associated with sexual activity is crucial for men with CVD, especially after ED treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing knowledge on the metabolic and cardiovascular demands of sexual activity.
- To evaluate the associated cardiovascular risks in men with CVD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on the physiological effects of sexual activity.
- Analysis of cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes in relation to sexual activity in men with CVD.
Main Results:
- Sexual activity results in a minor increase in cardiovascular risk.
- The metabolic and cardiovascular demands of sexual activity are generally modest.
- Regular physical activity can significantly reduce the cardiovascular risk associated with sexual activity.
- Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors are unlikely to increase cardiovascular risk in men with CVD, unless coadministered with organic nitrates.
Conclusions:
- The cardiovascular risks associated with sexual activity are generally low for men with CVD.
- Maintaining regular physical activity is key to mitigating these risks.
- Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors can be safely used in patients with CVD, provided organic nitrates are avoided.