Is Asthma Wrecking Your Sex Life?

If asthma—not romance—is taking your breath away, these three strategies can restore the fun

By Diane Kozak  

In a survey of 353 people with asthma, two-thirds revealed that breathing problems put a damper on their sex life.
While 47% reported some limitation in sexual functioning due to asthma, another 19% said that they had not had sex at all in the previous two weeks, according to research presented at the 96th International Conference of the American Thoracic Society. Researchers aren't certain why asthma reduced sexual activity, but they speculate that just as certain types of exercise can induce asthma symptoms, so can lovemaking.

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"Sexual limitation remains an area of asthma-related quality-of-life that is often neglected. It's a well-kept secret," says lead researcher Ilan H. Meyer, PhD, assistant professor at the Joseph L. Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University in New York City. "The good news is, there's something you can do about it." Consider the following options before you get romantic: Change Positions
Certain positions may put more pressure on the chest, causing shortness of breath. Experiment with those that allow you to remain upright during sex.
Take Your Meds First
If you take medications (such as a bronchodilator) before engaging in other types of physical activity, check with your doctor about doing the same before having sex.
Tell Your Doctor
Whether you've been diagnosed with asthma or not, your doctor needs to know if breathing problems (shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing) are putting the brakes on intimacy. This is important information in terms of prescribing the best treatment for you, says Dr. Meyer. Shy about discussing sex? Lead into it by talking about your general quality of life. "Sex is an indication of overall functioning and shouldn't be ignored," he says.