Is Sex All It’s Cracked Up to Be?
Well, sex can certainly be quite beneficial for health. It’s somewhat of a workout, engaging the heart and lungs while releasing endorphins that can boost mood. That’s a pretty nice bonus, isn’t it?
That said, there are risks involved. Common mishaps—think minor tears, scrapes, or muscle soreness—usually heal up on their own. However, more serious emergencies like heart attacks or penile fractures might need a trip to the ER, which isn’t ideal.
“The likelihood of a heart attack isn’t about where you are, but more about how vigorous the activity is,” notes Dr. Michael C. Gerling, an orthopedic spine surgeon from Bayonne Medical Center in New Jersey.
He pointed out that while penile fractures can happen in any position, certain ones are more notorious for it. Basically, if there’s a strong thrust against the pelvic wall, be cautious. It’s important to know that around 1 in 175,000 people experience penile fractures, and these injuries happen more frequently during busy times like weekends.
Gerling highlighted three common sexual positions linked to these unfortunate incidents and also offered advice on how to avoid them.
What Exactly Is a Penile Fracture?
It refers to a tear in the tunica albuginea, which is a tough layer of tissue that supports the penis. You might hear a pop or crack along with severe pain, swelling, or bruising if something goes wrong. If that happens, it’s crucial to head to the ER without delay.
“Unlike typical fractures, which orthopedic surgeons usually handle, this type really needs a urologist’s attention,” Gerling advises.
Surgery is often necessary to repair the injury, drain blood, and restore function. Post-surgery, you definitely won’t be jumping back into sexual activity right away; typically, it’s advised to wait about six weeks to allow for proper healing.
Watch Out for These Risky Positions
A study from Brazil covering the last two decades found that the “Doggy Style” position was responsible for 43% of penile fractures, while missionary accounted for about 40%, and various female positions contributed around 12%. Other moves accounted for the rest.
Interestingly, Gerling suggests that positions perceived as more dangerous are actually less likely to cause injury because they’re not as commonly attempted.
Preventing Unwanted Injuries
Gerling emphasizes that rough sex can sometimes lead to unintended injuries, so approaching things a bit more gently and maintaining clear communication is key.
Here are some tips to keep things safe:
- Be cautious on unstable surfaces, like high platforms or wet floors.
- Avoid risky maneuvers like standing or holding your partner in unusual positions.
- If you have previous joint or spinal issues, it’s wise to listen to your body and manage your agility accordingly.
“For instance, kneeling can be tough on the knees, and lifting or twisting has higher risks for those with back pain,” Gerling points out. Stretching and warming up before sex can prepare your body better.
Other Potential Issues
Interestingly, neck and limb injuries during sex are surprisingly uncommon, despite the possibility of bumps and falls. Back pain, however, tends to be a frequent complaint, especially in specific positions.
“The strain experienced in these postures often comes from excessive lifting, overextension, or twisting,” Gerling explains. Incorporating some basic stretching and core strengthening exercises can really help in the long run.
