Alcohol's impact on one's sexual prowess is a topic often overshadowed by its association with relaxation and enjoyment in our culture. Despite the common perception of alcohol as a confidence booster and social lubricant, there's a need to shed light on its less-discussed effects on sexual performance including libido, arousal, erectile dysfunction and orgasm.
Specifically for the men
Erectile Dysfunction: Yikes! No bloke wants to hear that term. According to a study published in Healthline, alcohol can impact a man’s ability to get and maintain an erection.
Going overboard with the alcohol can also lead to delayed ejaculation, which might sound like a plus for some, but the Mayo Clinic warns it can mean no orgasm at all.
And for the ladies
The National Library of Medicine notes that while alcohol may create a perception of increased arousal, the physiological impact is quite the opposite. Alcohol can diminish genital response, affecting the natural processes of increased blood flow, swelling, and self-lubrication. Too much alcohol can put a stop to these basic physiological responses, resulting in friction and a not-so-pleasant sexual experience.
Excessive alcohol can also mean females take a longer time to reach climax and often experience less intense or no orgasm.
Then there’s the Libido discrepancies
Beyond the physical aspects, alcohol disrupts the delicate chemical balance in the brain, influencing sexual drive and libido. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol-induced inhibition reduction does not necessarily translate to an enhanced sex drive.
Alcohol use can contribute to a misalignment in the sexual desires of partners. A person's dwindling libido might not match their partner's expectations, causing emotional distance and strain in the relationship.
But how does alcohol affect this?
The science behind alcohol's detrimental impact on sexual performance is straightforward – it diminishes blood flow to the genitals, essential for sexual function, while also disrupting the chemical balance in the brain and depressing the central nervous system. These factors collectively contribute to poor and unsatisfying performance in the bedroom for both men and women.
For those seeking to enhance their intimate encounters, it might be time to reconsider reaching for that wine and embrace the clear-headed, heartwarming benefits of sobriety. After all, navigating awkward encounters and avoiding cringe-worthy moments is likely more aligned with the desired bedroom experience.
Wishing you high vibes (and happy endings) 😉😉 Elise
References
Erectile Dysfunction (ED): What It Is and How to Treat It (healthline.com)
Search Results | The Journal of Sexual Medicine | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
Alcohol and Sex: 11 Effects and Myths (healthline.com)
Delayed ejaculation - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic