‘Stroke patients can still engage in sex’

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Neurological Association (PNA) has given assurance that while stroke patients are likely to have another stroke when they engage in sexual activities, it should not be a hindrance to re-ignite passion in the bedroom.

“There are just limitations… But is sex prohibited? No, sex is not a contraindicated in patients with stroke,” said PNA president Dr. Annette Bautista in a press conference organized by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer the other day.

Bautista admitted that the chance of having another stroke after a first stroke is “quite high.”

“Let’s say in the regular population, (having stroke) is like 20 percent. It will be higher, like 50 percent, if you have history of stroke,” she said.

Contrary to misconception, Bautista clarified that sexual functions are not affected by stroke unless the brain attack is massive.

“The sex drive is usually not affected, especially for men. If one does not function, it’s the psychological part that one feels disabled. Of course, the sexual urge and desires is still there,” she added.

But Bautista said sexual relationships need not be interrupted if a stroke patient makes sure that his “blood pressure is controlled.”

“You take your medication because we all know that for every sexual act, the nervous system part will make your blood pressure increase, your heart rate gets high... That’s normal in sexual intercourse, so you have to anticipate that. Take your medicine for blood pressure regularly,” she added.