Sexual health for patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator.

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.