As a physician specializing in gynecologic surgery, sexual medicine and hormone health, I am deeply invested in the holistic well-being of my patients. This commitment extends beyond addressing immediate symptoms to understanding and educating about the interconnected nature of our health. In light of February’s dual significance as both the month of love and Heart Awareness Month, I find it a pertinent time to discuss an often-overlooked aspect of health that bridges the heart and sexual function: the cardiovascular connection to sexual health.
The Cardiovascular-Sexual Health Nexus
Cardiovascular health and sexual function are intricately linked, a fact well-documented in men but less recognized in women. Erectile dysfunction (ED) in men has been widely studied as a precursor to heart disease, serving as a potential early warning sign due to the vascular nature of erectile function. The penis and the female clitoris, analogous in their structure and blood supply, rely on healthy blood flow for sexual arousal and function. Both organs are served by the pudendal arteries, highlighting the vascular commonality essential for sexual health. However, these blood vessels are quite small, making them more susceptible to obstruction from atherosclerosis or other cardiovascular conditions, leading to sexual dysfunction.
Despite the similarities, the correlation between cardiovascular health and sexual dysfunction in women has not been as extensively researched or publicized. The vascular health that impacts erectile function in men may similarly affect clitoral engorgement and arousal in women. A healthy cardiovascular system is as crucial for women’s sexual function as it is for men’s, yet this connection remains underexplored.
Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Evaluation
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for both men and women globally, accounting for nearly one-third of all deaths worldwide. Symptoms of heart disease can vary between genders, making awareness and early detection critical. CVD in women often manifests through symptoms that can be subtle and atypical, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, pain in the neck, jaw, upper belly, or back, dizziness, palpitations, and unexpected sweating. Interestingly, many of these symptoms mirror those associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, palpitations, and fatigue, leading to potential misinterpretation and underestimation of their severity. This overlap underscores the critical importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of our body systems and the need for a comprehensive, team-based approach to health management. It highlights how hormonal changes during menopause can mask or mimic the signs of cardiovascular disease, thereby necessitating heightened awareness and collaboration among healthcare providers to ensure that symptoms are appropriately evaluated and managed, taking into account the holistic picture of a woman’s health.
For heart disease evaluation, options extend beyond traditional physical exams and blood tests. A CT coronary calcium score, for instance, can provide valuable information about the presence of calcified plaque in the arteries supplying the heart—a strong predictor of coronary artery disease. A Carotid Doppler Ultrasound is also beneficial, offering insight into the health of the carotid arteries and the potential risks for cardiovascular events, such as stroke.
The Misconception of Hormonal Blame
Many women approach me with concerns about sexual health issues, often suspecting hormones to be the sole culprit. While hormonal decline can significantly impact sexual function in many women, cardiovascular health plays a significant role as well. It’s crucial for women who experience sexual dysfunction to also consider cardiovascular evaluation, especially when existing conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol are present.
Addressing heart disease prevention is a crucial component of comprehensive sexual health care. This involves lifestyle modifications, managing stress, and adhering to medication regimens when necessary. I am privileged to initiate conversations about sexual health and evaluate hormone status, but it’s essential for patients to take an active role in their overall health. This includes driving conversations with primary care providers, especially now that the correlation between cardiovascular health and sexual function has been identified. Working to decrease risk factors for cardiovascular disease and committing to treatment, even when conditions may not have identifiable or prominent side effects, is crucial.
Your Path Forward: A Call to Action
My objective with this article is to shed light on the vital link between heart health and sexual wellness. This February, let’s extend our focus from the celebration of love to the prioritization of heart health. I invite you to join me in a conversation about your sexual health and any barriers to intimacy you may be experiencing. Expect a thorough evaluation that encompasses more than just hormonal levels, including a broad review of your overall health. Please bring along any relevant blood tests and diagnostic results from your primary care provider.
Together, we will identify and address cardiovascular risk factors that could be impacting your sexual health. I’m here to facilitate a collaborative effort with your primary care providers, ensuring you receive a comprehensive approach to managing these risk factors. As your gynecologist and sexual medicine expert, I am here to guide you toward improved health and vitality, highlighting the essential connection between a healthy heart and fulfilling sexual life. Your well-being is my priority—let’s take this step together.
