Love Death-A Retrospective and Prospective Follow-Up Mortality Study Over 45 Years.

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Sexual Health

Background:

• Sexual activity can induce stress, potentially leading to natural death in individuals with underlying health conditions.
• Identifying specific pre-existing conditions, sexual practices, and circumstances triggering fatal events is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors contributing to natural deaths associated with sexual activity.
• To analyze pre-existing health problems, sexual behaviors, and triggering circumstances in fatal cases.

Main Methods:

• A medicolegal autopsy study, combining retrospective and prospective data collection over 45 years (1972-2016).
• Data sourced from the Institute of Legal Medicine at Goethe-University, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.

Main Results:

• Out of 38,000 autopsies, 99 (0.26%) natural deaths were linked to sexual activity, predominantly in men.
• Common causes included coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, and cerebral hemorrhage.
• Deaths often occurred during or after sexual contact with prostitutes, mistresses, or during masturbation.

Conclusions:

• Natural deaths during sexual activity are associated with male sex and pre-existing cardiovascular disorders.
• Awareness of potential risks and triggers, particularly in vulnerable populations, is essential.
• Psychological support may be necessary for surviving partners.