The Effects of Alcohol Dependency on Sexual Health

Alcohol is often considered a “social lubricant” used to break down conversational walls, reduce self-consciousness, and facilitate disclosure. Additionally, many individuals view alcohol as a way to heighten sexual experience, not realizing the effects of alcohol and alcohol dependency can have on sexual health. In fact, consume a single drink or are struggling with addiction, alcohol still take a toll on your sexual health with infectious disease, as well as your ability to have—or even enjoy—sexual intercourse.

Behavioral Effects of Alcohol on Sexual Health
Alcohol lowers inhibitions, impairs cognition and heightens risk-taking behaviors. In one study, half individuals reported having sex while intoxicated with someone they would not have had sex with otherwise. In one study, one quarter of interviewees reported going home with someone that they just met. In fact, research also demonstrates that people are less likely to use protection when they are intoxicated, increasing the risk for both sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy. Even when protective measures are taken, lack of coordination and impaired judgment leads to birth control failure and improper—and ineffective—use of protection during sexual episodes. Alcohol can also be used against sexual partners by predators, with approximately half of sexual assaults facilitated by alcohol.

Short and Long Term Effects of Alcohol Dependency on Sexual Health
Alcohol dependency can also take a toll on sexual ability and enjoyment. In fact, even a small amount of alcohol measurably reduces sexual response. Alcohol’s anesthetic properties reduce nerve response, making it difficult to achieve orgasm. Additionally, alcohol dependency can incite erectile dysfunction in men, and lack of sexual arousal in women, leading to painful or unsuccessful sexual endeavors. Alcohol dependent individuals of both sexes can also experience shrinking of the sexual organs, and men can face fertility issues, as alcohol lowers the sperm count. Furthermore, alcohol has a numbing effect on emotional response, leading to disconnected sexual encounters that prevent satisfying intimacy from taking place between partners.

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