Can sexual arousal cause high blood pressure?

Sexual arousal usually causes a temporary increase in blood pressure.

Sexual arousal refers to the body's physiological preparation before sexual intercourse. Initial sexual stimulation leads to vaginal dilation and lubrication, penile erection, increased muscle tension, heightened mental excitement, and a brief state of psychological excitement. When the sympathetic nervous system becomes activated, blood pressure tends to rise. For example, during sexual arousal, women may experience a systolic pressure increase of 20–60 mmHg and a diastolic pressure increase of 10–20 mmHg, while men typically show even greater increases—systolic pressure rising by 40–100 mmHg and diastolic pressure by 20–50 mmHg. However, after intercourse ends, blood pressure gradually returns to normal levels; this elevation is only transient.

If a person already has hypertension, special attention is needed. Individuals with mild hypertension or those whose blood pressure is well-controlled can usually engage in normal sexual activity. However, patients with severe hypertension should temporarily abstain from sexual intercourse.