Discussions surrounding sexual health can often invoke feelings of discomfort, especially among older adults living with cardiovascular issues who frequently seek guidance on the subject. Recent research based in Sweden indicates there is a significant disconnect in the communication of sexual health information to these individuals, as only 5% of participants in a survey received such guidance, despite more than 75% expressing a desire for it. Experts in the field point out that this gap is also prevalent in the United States.
Dr. Michael Blaha, affiliated with the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease in Baltimore, remarked on the survey findings, noting it highlights a common understanding among health professionals regarding the lack of information provided to patients in this area. Study lead Dr. Tiny Jaarsma, a nursing professor at the University of Linkoping, plans to present the outcomes of her team’s survey at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions in Chicago. She emphasized the universal need for sexual health information, which remains under-addressed in the medical community.
The survey comprised 135 participants with an average age of 65 years, revealing that many had common heart conditions: 47% suffered from high blood pressure, while 36% were heart attack survivors. One-third experienced atrial fibrillation, a type of irregular heartbeat, and 24% had heart failure. An overwhelming 76% of the respondents indicated that their heart condition impacted their sexual well-being and overall mood, with men more likely than women to report this linkage. Specifically, 65% of men noted effects on their sexual health compared to only 35% of women.
Despite that 78% of participants expressed a desire to receive sexual health information from their healthcare providers, a mere 5% reported actually obtaining it. A higher demand was noted among men, with 87% wanting more information versus 64% of women. Analysis showed differing interests regarding the type of information sought; men predominantly wished to discuss erectile dysfunction, while women were more concerned about experiencing pain during sex. Additional topics of concern included medication side effects, relationship dynamics related to sexual health, and anxiety associated with sexual activities, with a notable preference for receiving such information directly from healthcare conversations.
Dr. Jaarsma highlighted the prevalence of sexual health challenges among individuals with heart conditions, asserting that these patients require accurate information on how to maintain intimacy and tackle related hurdles. The American Heart Association encourages individuals recovering from heart events to consult healthcare professionals before resuming sexual activity. Dr. Blaha suggested that inadequate time during appointments might hinder physicians from addressing sexual health issues adequately, although he believes doctors do not lack good intentions. Instead, healthcare providers are under pressure to adequately cover pressing medical concerns in limited timeframes.
This prevailing issue is compounded by potential embarrassment from both patients and providers when broaching the topic of sexuality. Dr. Stacy Tessler Lindau, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Chicago, noted this commonality across her extensive practice. However, she has observed a shift over the years, with patients becoming more assertive in discussing their sexual health needs and professionals gaining more comfort in addressing these matters.
Lindau further emphasized the importance of sexual function in people’s quality of life, affecting their identity and happiness. She highlighted the challenge of incorporating discussions about sex into what are typically brief consultations. Efforts to provide sexual health education could be enhanced by involving physician assistants or integrating this knowledge into cardiac rehabilitation sessions.
Another suggestion is to include educational materials about sexual health in follow-up care for heart patients. Such initiatives could help normalize the conversation around sexual concerns and reinforce that these issues are just as significant as other health matters conveyed in a medical setting. Dr. Blaha believes this latest research serves as a crucial reminder for healthcare providers to engage in open discussions with their patients regarding their needs and concerns surrounding sexual health.
Overall, the findings reveal an urgent need for a more comprehensive approach in addressing sexual health among older adults with heart conditions. Through improved communication and education, healthcare professionals can help bridge the existing information gap and support their patients’ overall well-being.