[Sexuality and cardiopathies]

Every year, nearly 2.5 million Canadians are struck down by a heart attack. For many, the road to recovery is paved with great anxiety. This can take a number of forms, affecting career plans, physical activities, marital harmony and, worst of all, the couple's sex life. The author attempts to show how counselling by a qualified sexologist can make the difference by restoring the patient's sexuality. The article is part of a study conducted among more than 25 nurses at the Montreal Institute of Cardiology. A mini-review of the literature is presented, as well as the methodology used. The study revealed a clear need for more and better information on sexual relations following a heart attack.