We all know some of the more common dangers of alcohol like, liver damage, hangovers or even death as a result from drunk driving. But could it also be damaging your sex life? Is there a connection between alcohol and bad sex? I have some stats and facts that may surprise you about the two and may make you rethink your drinking habits.
Though many people believe alcohol to be an aphrodisiac, researchers have actually found the opposite to be true. Drinking too much can actually reduce sexual sensitivity in both men and women. Here are some more things to consider…
Side Effects in Men
Men that drink regularly or for over a prolonged amount of time may find that they have difficulty getting and maintaining an erection. This is called, "Brewer's Droop". Over drinking alcohol can even result in permanent impotence.
One reason why alcohol can negatively affect sexual performance is due to the fact that alcohol dehydrates the body. A dehydrated body can’t perform like it should in any capacity.
A less severe and somewhat shallow side effect is that alcohol can cause bad breath. And while bad breath might not inhibit your performance, it could result in a hesitant partner.
For women, the side effects of drinking often or for over a long period of time can be orgasms that are less intense. Women who drink heavily may find that they lose the ability to orgasm altogether. Another sexual side effect for women could be a reduction in lubrication.
Drinking regularly can also hurt a women’s chance of becoming pregnant should she so desire. Over drinking can cause a woman to suffer from fertility and menstrual problem.
Other Effects from Mixing Alcohol and Sex
A lot of people mix alcohol and sex and unprotected sex occurs as a result. The dangers of unprotected sex are the transmission of STDs and unplanned pregnancy.
When a person is under the influence of alcohol it can become near impossible to make sound decisions. Unfortunately, there is usually nothing you can do once you have unprotected sex.
If you are coming to the realization that alcohol is the culprit to blame for your poor sex life then it is probably time to quit. If you are finding it difficult to quit then talk to friend or family member for advice. You may want to consider joining a support group, or if your addiction is severe, you may need to consider admitting yourself into a rehab.
If you believe that your partner has a drinking problem that is coming in between your relationship with each other then try to positively encourage them to stop. Blaming your partner or yelling at them won't help them to quit. If you both drink then you can make a commitment together to remove alcohol from your relationship.
About Today's Guest WriterHenry Hernandez is an Army veteran from Los Angeles, CA. Henry currently does the marketing for an outpatient alcohol and drug rehabilitation center in Fountain Valley, CA. www.stephouserecovery.com. Henry can be found on Google+.
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