Sexuality in coronary artery disease

Preview

The subject of sexuality is too often avoided or given short shrift by physicians dealing with patients who have had a myocardial infarction or coronary bypass surgery. These patients, seeking to return to a full and normal life-style, understandably ask themselves and their physicians questions about whether and when they can resume sexual activity and whether this can cause heart pain and/or further injury. As Dr Mackey points out, the large majority of cardiac patients can, indeed, be reassured that their sex life can continue normally, although several important problem areas need to be considered as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.