Sexual Health for Patients With an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

Abstract

Studies examining the quality of life of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) patients have consistently demonstrated that ICD patient quality of life is at least equal to, if not better than, that of patients treated with medications alone.1 Quality of life may be related in part to the patient's ability to resume “pre-ICD” activities; however, sexual activity is rarely included as part of the patient education process. Sexual functioning has not been well studied in ICD patients, but preliminary research has suggested that patients commonly express concerns about fear of ICD shock during sex, varying interest and pattern of sexual activity, and a desire for more information and sexual counseling.2 The purpose of this Cardiology Patient Page is to identify typical issues related to sexual functioning in ICD patients and offer possible strategies for effective management. Despite limited research regarding the social functioning of ICD patients, our collective clinical experience suggests that common barriers exist when it comes to addressing their sexual health. The following sections detail specific barriers to healthy sexual functioning for ICD patients and proposed strategies for overcoming those barriers. ### Communication Between Patients and Healthcare Providers Although some people may believe that sex, love, and intimacy are subjects not to be discussed with others, sexual activity is highly relevant to your health and well-being and is an absolutely appropriate topic of discussion with your doctor. Unfortunately, research has shown a lack of adequate communication about sex between cardiovascular patients and their healthcare providers. Despite estimates that >75% of patients with cardiovascular disease experience some type of difficulty with sexual functioning,3 a lack of communication between patients and doctors persists. Research has shown that 98% of patients reported that they believed their cardiologists should discuss sexual functioning with them; however, only 15% of …