Abstract
This is a report on the effects of cardiac illness and surgery on the sexual activities and satisfactions of persons who have undergone cardiovascular surgery. Data were obtained from 80 cardiotomy patients as part of a study of psychosocial factors affecting their hospital experience, convalescence, and social rehabilitation, While most patients reported substantial improvement in physical functioning and reduction of symptoms after surgery, many of these also reported that their sexual activities and satisfactions had declined. Fear of over-exertion by the patient on the part of one or both partners, and anxiety of the recovering spouse about being able to continue satisfying his or her partner were frequently expressed. Only one-quarter of the subjects had discussed the implications of their illness or surgery with a physician, and of these, over 40% of the discussions had been initiated by the patient. Only 25% of the discussions included the patient's partner, and almost one-half found the discussion in some degree unsatisfactory. The implications of the findings for sex education, counseling, and social work services for cardiac patients are discussed.