Sexual Health and Well-Being in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease: A International Society of Adult Congenital Heart Disease Statement

JACC Adv. 2023 Nov 18;2(10):100716. doi: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2023.100716. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

As health care outcomes improve the priority for those living with adult congenital heart disease have changed to a more holistic focus on quality of life and well-being. Although health care has embraced this, there are still areas where there is a deficit in advice, allyship, and advocacy. One of these deficits is in the area of sexual health and well-being. A healthy sexual life has a myriad of physical and psychosocial benefits. However, individuals with adult congenital heart disease may have significant barriers to achieving well-being in this aspect of their lives. These barriers and their potential solutions are outlined in this paper.

Keywords: adult congenital heart disease; advocacy; contraception; gender; sexual health.

Publication types

  • Review