When I was younger, I often heard children returning from weddings speaking excitedly about newly married couples. They would say that someone had gotten married and that people were eager to learn how the groom would conduct himself in the private responsibilities of marriage.
From that early age, I became curious about this intimate aspect of life. At times, I even wished I could understand it myself or hear about it from others who seemed more experienced.
However, that curiosity gradually turned into fear when I began to hear that this act, known for providing intense pleasure, had, in some cases, led to the loss of life.
In 2025, a tragic incident was reported in Kinihira Sector, Ruhango District. A young woman had traveled to spend the holiday period with her partner. According to local residents who spoke to the media, the couple engaged in sexual intercourse. The following morning, the young man was shocked to discover that his partner had passed away during the night.
Why can death occur during sexual intercourse?
Medical experts explain that sexual activity in adults is generally beneficial to both physical and mental health. It helps lower high blood pressure, strengthens the immune system, reduces stress, and promotes better sleep.
During sexual climax, the body releases a hormone known as oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” This hormone enhances emotional bonding, trust, and closeness between partners.
Despite these benefits, sexual intercourse can, in rare circumstances, lead to serious health complications and even death.
Health professionals indicate that such cases are often linked to underlying medical conditions, particularly heart disease. The risk may increase when sexual activity is combined with the use of drugs, sexual performance–enhancing medications such as Viagra, or illegal substances like cocaine.
A study conducted by St George’s University in the United Kingdom revealed that individuals with heart-related conditions accounted for the majority of deaths occurring during or shortly after sexual activity, with older adults being the most affected.
Further evidence from a 2020 report published in JAMA Cardiology, based on data from St George’s Center for Cardiac Pathology, documented 6,847 deaths attributed to heart disease.
Among these cases, 17 individuals (0.2%) died during sexual intercourse or within one hour afterward. Of these, 35% were women, and two-thirds were men, with most victims being around the age of 38 and above.
For this reason, individuals with known heart conditions are strongly advised to seek medical guidance on how to engage safely in sexual activity.
Experts also emphasize the importance of post-intimacy communication, commonly known as “pillow talk.” During this calm and affectionate exchange, the body continues to release oxytocin, reinforcing emotional bonds and supporting healthy blood circulation.
