Thursday 29 January, 2009Sex in the summer can be killer

As much of Europe and North America simmer at record-high temperatures, experts warn that while passion may kindle, hearts may combust.

"Sustained sexual activity during a heatwave significantly heightens the risk of heart attack," according to Dr. Norbert Bachl of Vienna's Sport Medicine Institute. "The high temperatures increase the sex drive, but they also make intercourse quite risky, as the chance of heart-related complications increases."

At least one survey has found that hot weather increases sexual desire for 28 percent of men and 21 percent of women. But Dr. Bachl said couples should skip the sex if the thermometer tops 30° C (86° F).

If you simply can't refrain, please, make love "calmly," he said. Have sex under a cold shower, or wait until the evening hours, when the air gets cooler.

"But even then, they should not go wild."