Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common health problem that can silently affect various aspects of one's life. High blood pressure is a problem which affects not only the body but also intimate relationships (sex life). While people are often aware of the harms of high blood pressure to cardiovascular health, fewer understand its potential impact on sexual health.
Do you have high blood pressure? It can affect your sex life
Thus, the connection between high blood pressure and sexual health is often overlooked, yet it can significantly impact intimate relationships. Understanding this link is important for those managing high blood pressure. But how can high blood pressure affect sexual health? And are there steps individuals can take to manage these effects while working to lower their blood pressure?
effects on sexual health
“High blood pressure can have a profound impact on sexual performance and desire in both men and women,” explains Dr Suri Raju V, senior consultant urologist, Regal Super Specialty Hospital. He added that in men, high blood pressure can cause erectile dysfunction (ED). “The underlying issue is that high blood pressure damages the endothelium, or inner lining of blood vessels, reducing their ability to dilate properly. This results in restricted blood flow to the penis, making it difficult to get an erection or “It becomes difficult to maintain.”
For women, this effect can be equally challenging. Dr Raju says, “High blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the vaginal area, leading to decreased sexual arousal, vaginal dryness and difficulty achieving orgasm. They say the emotional burden of managing high blood pressure can also affect libido.
understanding the system
The relationship between blood pressure and sexual function lies in vascular health. “Healthy sexual arousal depends on proper blood circulation and nerve signaling,” explains Dr. Raju. “High blood pressure damages the arteries over time, making them less elastic and more likely to narrow.”
Dr. Raju says the impact is significant – Current Hypertension reports research indicates that 68% of men with high blood pressure experience some degree of erectile dysfunction, and women with high blood pressure are 40% more likely to have sexual arousal disorders. Is more.
managing both conditions
Fortunately, several approaches can help improve both blood pressure and sexual health. Dr. Raju recommends regular physical exercise, noting that “even moderate exercise, such as brisk walking for 30 minutes a day, significantly improves sexual performance and satisfaction in people with high blood pressure.”
They also emphasize the importance of dietary changes, especially following the DASH diet, and suggest careful consideration of medications. They advise, “Blood pressure medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or calcium channel blockers are less likely to cause sexual side effects than older antihypertensive medications.”
stress factors
Stress management plays an important role in both situations. The body's stress response triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, explains Dr. Raju. They recommend that couples maintain open communication and use stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation.
“Physical touch, such as non-sexual embrace or massage, can also release the 'bonding hormone' called oxytocin,” she said. He stressed that supporting each other during these challenges can make a significant difference in managing both conditions effectively.
Image Credit: PravaSakshi Assets
