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The term chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of diseases related to the lungs and breathing. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are two types of COPD.

People with COPD have difficulty breathing because less air flows in and out of the lungs. They frequently have shortness of breath and coughing (often with mucus).

They may also have trouble with activities that require energy and stamina, like having sex. But that doesn’t mean the end of intimacy. People with COPD can adapt and enjoy pleasurable sex.

If COPD symptoms are interfering with your sex life, these tips may help:

Plan ahead. Plan to have sex at times when you’re feeling your best, such as when your medication is at its peak. You might also wait two hours after having a heavy meal. Clear your lungs of any mucus beforehand as well.
Think about your environment. Make sure your bedroom is free from secondhand smoke or other air pollutants that can make it hard to breathe. Also, make sure the room isn’t too hot or too cold so you can breathe more easily.
Keep medicines and devices nearby. Ask your doctor about which medications and devices can be used before and during sex. For example, some people with COPD keep an inhaler and oxygen at the ready.

Try new positions and roles. It’s important to keep pressure off your chest, so try lying side-by-side with your partner. You might also consider having your partner on top, as long as they are not on your chest or interfering with your airway. Experts also recommend letting our partner take the more active, energetic role.
Take a break if you need to. If you’re feeling tired or out of breath, it’s okay to take a break in the middle of sex. You and your partner can still be intimate at this time, kissing, and hugging, and caressing.

Here are more ideas to keep in mind:

Stop smoking! Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors for COPD. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about a cessation program. Let your family and friends know, too. They’ll cheer on your efforts!
Keep a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you’re eating right and getting the appropriate amount of physical activity. Your doctor can tell you what types of exercise are best for you.
Stay in touch with your doctor. Your doctor will give you specific instructions for managing your COPD. Follow them precisely and ask any questions as they come up. And don’t feel embarrassed about discussing sexual topics. Your sexual health is an important part of your overall health.
Communicate with your partner. Above all, talk to your partner about how you’re feeling. For example, if you feel short of breath during sex and need to stop, be open about that. Don’t push yourself.

In addition, consider telling your partner how you’re feeling emotionally, too. Having COPD brings changes to your life. If you’re feeling anxious or depressed, it’s okay to share that and ask for support. Your doctor can also refer you to a counselor if you’d like.

Resources

American Lung Association

“Intimacy During COPD Treatment”

(Page last updated: October 23, 2020)

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/copd/living-with-copd/intimacy-during-treatment

British Lung Foundation

“Sex and breathlessness – How do I stop myself getting out of breath during sex?”

(Last medical review: March 2020)

https://www.blf.org.uk/support-for-you/sex-and-breathlessness/suggestions

International Society for Sexual Medicine

“Is there a link between COPD and erectile dysfunction (ED)?”

https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/is-there-a-link-between-copd-and-erectile-dysfunction-ed/