Information from health care professionals about sexual function and coexistence after myocardial infarction: a Swedish national survey.

BACKGROUND: After a myocardial infarction (MI), many patients and their partners experience problems with marital and sexual life. METHODS: A Swedish national survey was carried out to obtain knowledge on the information provided by cardiac health care professionals on the subject of sexual function and coexistence after an MI. It consisted of a questionnaire that was designed, tested, and sent to 121 coronary care units. RESULTS: The coronary care unit teams rarely provided oral or written information about sexual function and coexistence to patients with MI or their partners. The health care professionals lacked competence in these areas. CONCLUSION: It is essential that health care professionals are educated on and inform the patient with MI about the significance of sexual function and coexistence. Further research is required regarding patients' and their partners' need for information and support in this area