We have talked a few times on this blog about the benefits to health that sex has. From cancer prevention to prostate health, from anxiety and depression to headache, sex does a body good. Today, however, I want to focus in on just one aspect of how health and sex go hand in hand. Let’s discuss the  heart and vascular health and how it affects us sexually and beyond.

Your vascular health is closely tied with sex . Vascular health is usually associated with your heart health, so let’s begin there. Heart health, or unhealth, can have a huge impact on many other aspects of health, including healthy sex. Many of the symptoms of cardiovascular disease can effect a healthy sex life both directly and indirectly. To be quite blunt, arousal in both men and women is directly affected by blood flow or lack thereof. Lack of arousal and proper, natural lubrication in women and erectile dysfunction in men is directly affected by the volume and oxygenation of the blood being pumped to the genitals and other erogenous zones during sexual activity. Poor circulation and high blood pressure directly affect arousal due to this. Many of the medications prescribed for cardiovascular disease can have a negative affect on sexual desire, arousal, and function. If you see that these things are happening due to your prescriptions, always consult your doctor. Do not be tempted to stop drugs on your own because of disruption to your sex life, but ask your doctor what can possibly be adjusted. Good sex is important, but not more important than a healthy heart.

Taking care of your vascular health should become a part of your health routine to both obtain and maintain a healthy sex life. The first step you can take is exercise. Getting good cardio daily, or at least several times a week, can improve your vascular health. Getting up to move, or getting down with your partner, will keep the blood literally pumping and help it pump down the line. Remember, not only is sex healthy, it is a cardiovascular work out as well. Eat a heart healthy diet, with plenty of dark greens, lean meats, healthy fats and drink plenty of water. Some experts say drink half the number of your body weight, in ounces, of water daily to maintain good hydration. Watch your weight. The larger you are, the harder your heart and vascular system has to work to pump blood through the body and get oxygen to all the muscle and tissue. These tips are good for overall health and fitness, but are key to good heart and sexual health.

As we have stated before, your health and your sexual health go hand in hand. Taking care of your body will keep it ready, willing, and able to perform sexually when the time arises. Being ready and able to enjoy sex can make you happy and healthy.

Harvard Health

Cleveland Clinic

Bakersfield.com