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Arrhythmias and Sexual Activity

Topic Overview

Is it safe for me to have sex?

If you have an arrhythmia and your doctor says that it's okay for you to do moderate activity, like brisk walking, then it's probably safe for you to have sex.

If you have any concerns, ask your doctor. Your doctor can check the health of your heart and help you know if it's safe to have sex.

Tell your doctor if you have symptoms, like palpitations, when you have sex or when you exercise.

Talk honestly with your partner about your concerns and feelings. You can also try professional counseling to help you to understand and deal with feelings of worry or fear.

What if I have a pacemaker?

Most people who have a pacemaker can have an active sex life. If your doctor says that you can exercise and be active, then it's probably safe for you to have sex.

After you get the device implanted, you'll let your chest heal for a short time before resuming sex.

What if I have an ICD?

Most people who have an ICD (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator) can have an active sex life. If your doctor says that you can exercise and be active, then it's probably safe for you to have sex.

After you get the device implanted, you'll let your chest heal for a short time before resuming sex.

What if I get shocked? Many people with ICDs worry that their ICD might shock them during sex. The risk of getting a shock during sex seems to be the same as during any other similar level of exercise. If you get a shock during sex, you will follow your plan about when to call your doctor.

Will my partner get shocked? Some people worry that if they get shocked during sex, their partner might be hurt. But your partner will not be shocked or feel any pain if you get shocked.

Related Information

References

Other Works Consulted

  • Levine GN, et al. (2012). Sexual activity and cardiovascular disease: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 125(8): 1058–1072.
  • Vasquez LD, et al. (2010). Sexual health for patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Circulation, 122(13): e465–e467.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer John M. Miller, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology
Last Revised April 20, 2012

Last Revised: April 20, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & John M. Miller, MD, FACC - Cardiology, Electrophysiology

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