Intimacy Related Behavior in Individuals with Chronic Heart Conditions

Abstract

This article presents an overview of the most recent recommendations issued by a major cardiovascular authority concerning intimacy-related considerations for individuals with various cardiac conditions, including coronary vessel disease, impaired cardiac output, anatomical abnormalities, rhythm disorders, and the presence of implanted cardiac devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators. The document also addresses management approaches for dysfunctions related to sexual health.

Engaging in sexual activity is generally comparable to short bursts of light-to-moderate physical exertion. Most individuals can safely resume such activity following a thorough assessment of their cardiovascular status. Those demonstrating stable symptoms and satisfactory exercise tolerance are typically considered at minimal risk for cardiac events, while others may require further management or stabilization before resuming such activities. In individuals with unclear or borderline clinical profiles, exercise-based evaluation is considered useful in assessing risk levels.

Therapeutic options for managing sexual dysfunction include patient and partner counseling, as well as pharmacologic interventions. For men, phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors—such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil—have shown both safety and efficacy. In women, serotonin receptor modulators like flibanserin, along with localized hormonal treatments, are commonly used. Ultimately, a personalized and interdisciplinary approach is essential in routine care to identify and address factors that may hinder sexual function and negatively impact quality of life.