Article by Dr. Nguyen Bang Phong - Specialist Doctor Level II - Cardiology Center, Vinmec Times City International General Hospital
For individuals with hypertension, a common question is: Is there any relationship between hypertension and sexual intercourse? Can I engage in sexual activity if I have hypertension, and how can I do so safely? Here are some insights to help answer these inquiries.
1. Effects of high blood pressure on Sexual Activity
First, hypertension can damage arteries, leading to arterial hardening and the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. If these vascular injuries occur in cerebral arteries, they may cause strokes; in coronary arteries, they may lead to coronary artery disease (including myocardial infarction); and in arteries of the genital system, they may reduce blood flow, causing erectile dysfunction in men and vaginal dryness or decreased orgasm in women. Hypertension can also lower sexual desire in both men and women.
Several studies have addressed this issue, such as:
- A study published in The Journal of Urology in October 2000 on 104 men with hypertension showed that 71 of them experienced erectile dysfunction.
- A study in The American Journal of Hypertension in June 2000 on 640 women with hypertension found a significant proportion experienced pain during intercourse and reduced orgasm.
2. Effects of Antihypertensive Medications on Sexual Activity
People with hypertension are often prescribed medications to lower blood pressure, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Among these, diuretics and beta-blockers can reduce erectile function. Therefore, individuals with hypertension and erectile dysfunction should not hesitate to inform the doctor to avoid being prescribed these medications. Under no circumstances should they self-medicate with erectile dysfunction drugs (e.g., Viagra), as these can interact with certain medications like nitrates or alpha-blockers. Hypertensive patients with coronary artery disease using nitrates may experience a dangerous drop in blood pressure or trigger chest pain if they take erectile dysfunction drugs.
3. Blood Pressure Increase During Sexual Intercourse
Sexual activity is a natural human need, and this is also true for people with hypertension. Sexual activity is considered mild to moderate physical exertion, so blood pressure will increase during such activities. This increase can become dangerous if blood pressure is not well-controlled, potentially leading to complications such as aortic dissection, acute coronary syndrome, acute heart failure, or stroke.
The risk of complications rises with higher blood pressure levels. To ensure safety, hypertensive patients should measure their blood pressure before engaging in sexual activity. Sexual intercourse is advisable only when blood pressure has been controlled to normal levels: systolic blood pressure (SBP) <140 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) <90 mmHg. Even with normal blood pressure, individuals with chronic heart failure or chronic coronary artery disease should moderate their sexual activity and use techniques that do not require excessive exertion but still achieve satisfactory outcomes. For those with grade 1 hypertension (SBP <160 mmHg or DBP <100 mmHg), sexual activity is possible but should be limited in exertion as described above. For grade 2 hypertension (SBP ≥160 mmHg and/or DBP ≥100 mmHg), sexual activity should be avoided until blood pressure is better controlled and reduced to grade 1 levels. During sexual activity, hypertensive individuals should receive empathy, encouragement, patience, and sensitivity from their partners to establish a safe frequency and select appropriate positions that allow both partners to achieve satisfaction without risk.
Thus, people with hypertension can maintain sexual activity in a reasonable and safe manner as outlined above. Additionally, they should adhere to treatment plans, attend regular check-ups, and adopt lifestyle adjustments: quit smoking, limit alcohol intake (e.g., up to 2/3 of a beer bottle or 120 ml of red wine, equivalent to one unit of alcohol per day), relax, work moderately, and exercise within their limits. This approach ensures life remains vibrant and meaningful.
Currently, Vinmec offers Hypertension Screening Packages with a team of highly skilled and dedicated medical professionals. Vinmec is confident in its hypertension screening and treatment services due to:
- 90% of staff hold postgraduate degrees, with 20% being Professors or Associate Professors, and nearly 30% being PhDs, ensuring effective treatment outcomes.
- Comprehensive, professional medical examination, consultation, and treatment services.
- Modern diagnostic and treatment equipment for effective support.
- A civilized, luxurious, and sterilized medical environment.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
