How does alcohol consumption affect erectile function. What are the short-term and long-term consequences of alcohol abuse on sexual performance. Can moderate drinking improve sexual function. How to prevent and manage alcohol-induced erectile dysfunction.

Understanding the Relationship Between Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting millions of men worldwide. While various factors can contribute to ED, alcohol consumption has been identified as a significant risk factor. This article explores the complex relationship between alcohol and erectile function, examining both short-term and long-term effects.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol on Sexual Performance

In the short term, alcohol can have paradoxical effects on sexual function. Small amounts may reduce inhibitions and increase desire, but larger quantities can significantly impair performance. As Shakespeare astutely observed, alcohol “provokes the desire but takes away the performance.” This phenomenon has given rise to the colloquial term “whiskey dick,” referring to alcohol-induced temporary erectile dysfunction.

The Physiological Mechanisms Behind Alcohol-Induced ED

How exactly does alcohol interfere with erectile function? There are several mechanisms at play:

• Dehydration: Alcohol is a diuretic, leading to decreased blood volume and increased angiotensin, which can limit blood flow to the penis.
• Vasodilation: While alcohol initially dilates blood vessels, increasing penile blood flow, it also prevents proper blood retention, making it difficult to maintain an erection.
• Central nervous system depression: Alcohol affects the brain’s ability to send proper signals to the genitals, impairing sexual function.

Long-Term Consequences of Alcohol Abuse on Sexual Health

Chronic alcohol abuse can have severe and potentially irreversible effects on male sexual function. These long-term consequences include:

• Testicular atrophy and impaired testosterone production
• Damage to penile arteries, leading to persistent ED
• Nerve damage in the penis, affecting sensation and function
• Disruption of the hormonal balance necessary for proper sexual function

Is there a direct correlation between the amount of alcohol consumed and the risk of developing ED? Studies have shown that men who engage in heavy drinking (more than 30 standard drinks per week) over extended periods are at significantly higher risk of developing chronic erectile dysfunction.

The Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Alcohol-Dependent Men

Multiple studies have investigated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among men with alcohol dependence syndrome. The findings consistently show that a significant percentage of these individuals experience one or more forms of sexual dysfunction, including:

• Low sexual desire
• Difficulty achieving orgasm
• Premature ejaculation
• Erectile dysfunction

These issues can have a profound impact on quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. It’s important to note that the severity and prevalence of these problems tend to increase with the duration and intensity of alcohol abuse.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption: Friend or Foe to Erectile Function?

While excessive alcohol consumption is clearly detrimental to sexual health, the effects of moderate drinking are more nuanced. Some studies suggest that light to moderate alcohol intake may actually have protective effects against ED. How can this be explained?

• Stress reduction: Moderate drinking can help alleviate stress and anxiety, which are common psychological causes of ED.
• Improved cardiovascular health: Some alcoholic beverages, particularly red wine, contain compounds that may benefit heart health and circulation.
• Increased confidence: A small amount of alcohol can reduce social inhibitions, potentially improving sexual performance in those with anxiety-related ED.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that these potential benefits are associated with truly moderate consumption. The line between beneficial and harmful drinking can be thin, and individual responses to alcohol vary greatly.

Alcohol and ED in Men with Underlying Health Conditions

For men with certain health conditions, the relationship between alcohol and erectile function becomes even more complex. Diabetes mellitus, for example, is already a risk factor for ED. When combined with excessive alcohol consumption, the risk of developing erectile dysfunction increases significantly.

Why is this the case? Alcohol can greatly affect blood sugar levels, exacerbating the circulatory and nerve issues associated with diabetes. This combination can lead to more severe and persistent erectile problems.

Other conditions that may interact negatively with alcohol in terms of sexual function include:

• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Liver disease
• Hormonal imbalances

Men with these conditions should be particularly cautious about their alcohol intake and consult with healthcare providers about safe consumption levels.

Strategies for Managing Alcohol-Related Erectile Dysfunction

If you’re experiencing ED related to alcohol consumption, there are several strategies you can employ to improve your sexual function:

1. Reduce alcohol intake: This is the most straightforward and effective approach for many men.
2. Improve overall health: Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
3. Seek professional help: For those struggling with alcohol dependence, professional treatment can address both the addiction and its sexual side effects.
4. Consider medication: In some cases, ED medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms while addressing the underlying alcohol issue.
5. Communication: Open dialogue with your partner about the situation can reduce stress and improve intimacy.

Can ED caused by alcohol be reversed? In many cases, especially when the dysfunction is primarily due to short-term or moderate alcohol use, sexual function can improve significantly once alcohol consumption is reduced or eliminated. However, in cases of long-term alcohol abuse, some damage may be permanent, underscoring the importance of early intervention.

Prevention: The Key to Maintaining Healthy Erectile Function

Preventing alcohol-related ED is far easier than treating it once it occurs. Here are some preventive measures to consider:

• Set and stick to safe drinking limits
• Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water
• Be aware of how alcohol affects your individual sexual response
• Avoid drinking before sexual activity if you notice negative effects
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall sexual health

What constitutes “safe” drinking levels for maintaining erectile function? While individual responses vary, general guidelines suggest limiting intake to no more than 1-2 standard drinks per day for men, with at least 2-3 alcohol-free days per week.

When to Seek Professional Help for Alcohol-Related ED

Recognizing when to seek medical advice is crucial for effectively managing alcohol-related erectile dysfunction. Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• ED persists even after reducing alcohol consumption
• You’re struggling to control your drinking
• ED is causing significant distress or relationship problems
• You have underlying health conditions that may be exacerbating the issue
• You’re experiencing other symptoms alongside ED, such as decreased libido or premature ejaculation

What can you expect from a medical consultation for alcohol-related ED? A healthcare provider will likely:

1. Take a detailed medical and sexual history
2. Perform a physical examination
3. Order blood tests to check hormone levels and other relevant markers
4. Discuss your alcohol consumption patterns and their potential impact on your sexual health
5. Recommend appropriate treatments, which may include lifestyle changes, counseling, or medication

Remember, seeking help early can prevent more serious long-term consequences and improve your overall quality of life.

The Role of Partners in Addressing Alcohol-Related Sexual Dysfunction

The impact of alcohol-induced erectile dysfunction extends beyond the individual, often affecting relationships significantly. Partners can play a crucial role in addressing this issue:

• Providing emotional support and understanding
• Encouraging healthier lifestyle choices
• Participating in couple’s therapy if relationship issues are contributing to alcohol use or sexual problems
• Being patient during the recovery process
• Exploring alternative forms of intimacy that don’t rely solely on penetrative sex

How can partners effectively communicate about alcohol-related ED without causing additional stress? Open, honest, and non-judgmental communication is key. Focus on expressing concern for overall health and well-being rather than criticizing or blaming. Collaboratively exploring solutions can strengthen the relationship and improve outcomes.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Alcohol and ED Studies

As our understanding of the complex relationship between alcohol and erectile function continues to evolve, researchers are exploring several promising avenues:

• Genetic factors that may influence individual susceptibility to alcohol-induced ED
• The potential protective effects of certain compounds found in alcoholic beverages
• Novel treatments targeting the specific physiological mechanisms of alcohol-related ED
• The role of the gut microbiome in mediating alcohol’s effects on sexual function
• More precise guidelines for “safe” alcohol consumption in relation to sexual health

What potential breakthroughs might we see in the coming years? While it’s difficult to predict specific outcomes, ongoing research may lead to:

1. More personalized approaches to preventing and treating alcohol-related ED
2. Better understanding of how different types of alcohol affect erectile function
3. Development of new medications or supplements to mitigate alcohol’s negative effects on sexual health
4. Improved diagnostic tools for early detection of alcohol-induced sexual dysfunction
5. More effective interventions for individuals struggling with both alcohol dependence and sexual health issues

As research progresses, it’s crucial for individuals to stay informed about the latest findings and recommendations regarding alcohol consumption and sexual health.

Holistic Approaches to Managing Alcohol-Related Erectile Dysfunction

While reducing alcohol intake is often the primary focus in addressing alcohol-related ED, a holistic approach can yield more comprehensive and lasting results. Consider incorporating the following strategies:

• Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques
• Nutritional support to address potential deficiencies caused by alcohol abuse
• Pelvic floor exercises to improve blood flow and muscle control
• Acupuncture or other complementary therapies
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy to address underlying psychological factors

How can these holistic approaches complement traditional medical treatments? By addressing the multifaceted nature of erectile dysfunction, holistic strategies can enhance overall well-being, potentially improving the effectiveness of other interventions and reducing the risk of relapse into harmful drinking patterns.

The Societal Impact of Alcohol-Related Erectile Dysfunction

The prevalence of alcohol-induced ED has broader implications beyond individual health:

• Economic costs due to lost productivity and healthcare expenses
• Strain on relationships and families
• Potential contributions to declining birth rates in some populations
• Stigma and mental health challenges associated with both alcohol abuse and sexual dysfunction

How can society address these broader impacts? Public health initiatives focusing on education about the sexual health risks of excessive alcohol consumption, improved access to treatment for both alcohol dependence and sexual dysfunction, and efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding these issues can all contribute to mitigating the societal impact of alcohol-related ED.

In conclusion, the relationship between alcohol and erectile dysfunction is complex and multifaceted. While moderate consumption may have some benefits, excessive drinking poses significant risks to sexual health. By understanding these risks, implementing preventive strategies, and seeking help when needed, men can maintain healthier erectile function and overall well-being. As research in this field continues to advance, we can look forward to more effective approaches to managing and preventing alcohol-related erectile dysfunction.

Facts About Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

Questions About Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction? Ask an Expert

• Firstname
• Lastname
• Email
• Phone
• Your Question
• • Send me more information about Boston Medical Group Telemedicine

Facts About Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

The great William Shakespeare once noted that alcohol, “provokes the desire but takes away the performance” and studies have proven this to be true. For many men, alcohol can help put both them and their partner in the mood, but at the end of the day, alcohol is a depressant and too much alcohol consumption can negatively affect the man’s sexual performance, ability to attain an erection, or reach orgasm. Hence, the popular slang “whiskey dick” emerged to refer to alcohol-related sexual dysfunction. ED that’s induced by alcohol is a temporary condition due to overindulging in alcohol in the short term. In the long term, higher levels of alcohol intake in heavy drinkers and alcoholics can also do permanent damage to their penile arteries and become impotent from overindulging in alcohol over a long period of time.

Quick Facts on Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

• Alcohol abuse in men can cause impaired testosterone production and shrinkage of the testes (i.e. testicular atrophy).
• Alcohol dilates and expands the blood vessels in the penis, increasing blood flow by 20 to 40 times. If you are able to achieve an erection during this state, the alcohol in your system actually keeps the blood vessels open, allowing the blood to drain out quickly, returning the penis to a relaxed state.
• One reason why drinking large amounts of alcohol can make it hard to get or keep an erection is that, as a diuretic, drinking alcohol causes dehydration which then causes decreased blood volume and increased angiotensin that can limit blood flow to the penis.
• Long-term alcohol abuse affects the central nervous system and impairs the impulses between the brain’s pituitary gland and the genitals.
• Consuming alcohol can contribute to the development of ED but chronic and persistent alcohol use is known to induce sexual dysfunction.
• Multiple studies found that a significant percentage of men with alcohol dependence syndrome had one or more sexual dysfunction; such as low sexual desire, dysfunction in satisfying orgasm, premature ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction.
• Men with underlying conditions should take extra careful precautions regarding their alcohol intake. For example, pairing excessive alcohol consumption with diabetes mellitus increases the risk of developing erectile dysfunction since alcohol can greatly affect the blood sugar levels in your body.
• Clinical studies have shown that prolonged alcohol abuse causes irreversible damage to the nerves in the penis, greatly affecting male sexual function and resulting in alcohol impotence.

To get help for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, call Boston Medical Group Telemedicine today at 1-866-665-1184. Boston Medical Group Telemedicine services patients in all 50 states and remains the same trusted brand for over 20 years helping men improve their sex life and sexual health.

Many men are able to regain full sexual function and are able to please their partner after just one treatment!

The Best Alcohol For Erectile Dysfunction?

Content

• Overview
• Is alcohol good for erectile dysfunction?
• How does alcohol help erectile dysfunction? 
• Can alcohol be used to treat erectile dysfunction?
• Can alcohol cause erectile dysfunction?
• Why does alcohol-induced ED happen?
• Who is affected by alcohol-induced ED?
• Managing alcohol-related erectile dysfunction 
• How to prevent alcohol-related erectile dysfunction 
• When to see a doctor
• The lowdown

Alcohol can induce temporary erectile dysfunction (ED) and increase your risk of developing long-term ED. However, there are mixed messages about which types of alcohol cause ED and how much alcohol one can drink without triggering sexual functioning issues.

Have you considered clinical trials for Erectile dysfunction?

We make it easy for you to participate in a clinical trial for Erectile dysfunction, and get access to the latest treatments not yet widely available – and be a part of finding a cure.

Check your eligibility

Many people believe that alcohol is beneficial for ED. To some extent, that may be true, as low to moderate amounts can increase your confidence and lower your inhibitions, which may relieve ED triggered by social or sexual anxiety.

So, how much alcohol is considered safe and effective for ED? According to the SMSNA for Patients, drinking light to moderate amounts of alcohol may reduce your risk of ED.¹

However, chronic or regular heavy drinking of more than 30 standard drinks per week over a long period will likely negatively impact your erectile functioning and cause other health problems linked to long-term excessive alcohol intake.  

High amounts of alcohol can cause high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, and disorders affecting the heart muscle.  These are all risk factors for ED, as achieving an erection requires increased blood flow and blood pressure in the penis. Anything that damages the blood vessels could therefore affect this process.

Research shows that ongoing alcohol use induces sexual dysfunction — including low sexual desire and ED.²

The exact mechanism of how excess alcohol intake induces ED is somewhat unclear, with some researchers suggesting it could be due to abnormal testosterone levels or alcohol’s effect on the corpus cavernosum muscle in the penis.³

Alcohol does not necessarily help erectile dysfunction, and it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional to discuss ED treatment options. 

People once believed the only types of alcohol that could benefit health were wine and dark beer because they contain a type of antioxidant called polyphenols.⁴

If you drink alcohol and experience ED, speak with your healthcare provider. They may advise you to reduce your alcohol consumption. According to the CDC, moderate drinking levels should be two standard drinks or fewer per day for men.⁵

However, you may want to decrease this to one or even abstain from alcohol if you believe your alcohol consumption is causing ED or other health issues. A standard drink includes: 

• 5oz of wine (12% alcohol content), red or white

• 12oz of beer or cider (5% alcohol content)

• 1.5oz of spirits (40% alcohol content)

Alcohol can contribute to ED in two ways.

1. Alcohol-related erectile dysfunction

Alcohol-related erectile dysfunction, or alcohol-induced ED, is when excessive drinking causes temporary ED symptoms. 

Some men use alcohol to lower their inhibitions and increase their arousal when out socializing; however, they often take it too far, drink too much, and then struggle to get or keep an erection during sex. The good news is that ED symptoms linked to alcohol typically go away when you sober up.  

2. ED caused by chronic excessive alcohol consumption

If you drink alcohol in excess daily or weekly, drinking three or more standard drinks per day, or 30 or more standard drinks per week, you may be putting yourself at risk of developing long-term ED. 

Excessive alcohol consumption over time causes damage to your blood vessels, affecting the blood flow to your penis (as well as many other health problems). Without proper blood flow to your penis, you will struggle to achieve and maintain an erection. 

It’s common to think that you are safe if you only drink excessively on a Friday and Saturday night, but binge drinking (five or more drinks per sitting for men and four or more for women) can have the same impact as 30 standard drinks spread over the week. 

There are a few ways alcohol can affect your ability to achieve an erection:

• Alcohol is a depressant. It slows down the signals between your brain and body, something you have probably experienced if you’ve ever been drunk. This effect can slow the signals between the brain and the penis, meaning that sexual excitement in the brain may not lead to the physical processes required to get an erection.

• Alcohol dehydrates you. It is a diuretic, which means it increases the amount of water in your urine and makes you urinate more frequently. This causes a decrease in your total body water, including the water in your blood. Less water in your bloodstream reduces your blood pressure. Erections are produced by an increase in blood flow to the penis, so a decrease in your blood pressure may affect your ability to achieve or maintain an erection. 

Alcohol-induced ED can affect any man who drinks excessive amounts of alcohol. Depending on your individual tolerance to alcohol, the number of standard drinks you can consume before you experience alcohol-induced ED may vary. 

Regardless of whether you drink every week or on special occasions, if you drink too much at any one time, you may experience alcohol-related ED.  

As the symptoms of alcohol-induced ED are linked to dehydration, men who were dehydrated before they started drinking may find themselves more affected than those who were hydrated. 

It’s essential to note that if you experience alcohol-induced ED regularly, it may be an indication that you are drinking in excess too often. This could put you at risk of developing long-term ED, where the effects won’t wear off when you sober up. 

If alcohol-related erectile dysfunction is something you’ve struggled with in the past, you need to be mindful of how much you drink on any occasion if you want to be able to perform sexually. Some strategies include:

• Not drinking excessive amounts, pacing yourself, and drinking responsibly

• Making sure you’re hydrated before you start drinking

• Drinking water while drinking alcohol to avoid dehydration

• Abstaining from drinking alcohol

Some men try to manage alcohol-related ED by taking medications designed to treat ED symptoms.

These medications commonly include PDE-5 inhibitors — a class of drugs that includes Viagra as well as Levitra, Staxyn, Cialis, and Stendra. It is important to note that alcohol consumption is not recommended when taking any of these medications, as alcohol can counteract the effect of the drug or make the side effects much worse. 

Side effects may include headaches, facial flushing, and severe chest discomfort. 

Always take medications as directed on the label and consult your doctor before taking any medications. In general, you should avoid alcohol if you are taking PDE-5 inhibitors. 

The simplest way to prevent alcohol-related erectile dysfunction is to avoid binge drinking or drinking excessively. Drinking responsibly and limiting your alcohol intake is also essential for your overall physical, mental, and social health, so it won’t just have positive effects in the bedroom.

If you’re struggling with ED, alcohol is not the answer. While it may help you deal with psychological causes of ED, such as confidence issues, the risks outweigh the benefits.  

If you don’t drink alcohol, this article is not suggesting you take up drinking alcohol to improve your erectile functioning, and there’s no evidence suggesting alcohol is the most effective treatment for ED.

Regardless of your relationship with alcohol, there are safer and more effective methods for dealing with ED. Speak with your doctor about medications, therapies, and positive lifestyle changes to help you effectively manage your ED. 

If you believe your ED may be linked to your drinking habits and you’re unable to cut back on your own, your doctor can guide you and connect you with organizations that specialize in alcohol-related issues. 

Depending on how much you drink, alcohol could be helpful or harmful to erectile dysfunction. However, alcohol has minimal usefulness in treating ED. It’s likely that alcohol, when consumed in moderate amounts, only has the potential to help you manage the psychological causes of the condition, not the physical ones. 

On the other hand, binge drinking or chronic consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol on any specific occasion is unsafe and can lead to the development of alcohol-induced ED. This condition is quite common in men after a big night but may be an indication of an unhealthy lifestyle if it happens repeatedly. 

Alcohol has many adverse health effects on the body and can significantly affect your mental and social well-being. If you drink alcohol and are concerned about the impact drinking has on your life, speak with your doctor.

Alcoholism and impotence. Men’s health

The terrible truth about impotence sounds unbelievable, but the problem of male impotence threatens every drinking person. Most men who drink alcohol do not even think that there may be problems. As long as these problems do not affect them. Usually impotence overtakes a man at the age of 35-40, or even earlier. Many, until they have encountered such a disease, simply do not want to admit and even believe that such a thing is even possible. Most listen to the advice of doctors, but believe that everything will work out. Moreover, at an early age, drinking alcohol, on the contrary, has an exciting effect, increases blood flow to the pelvic organs, and most importantly, increases the duration of sexual intercourse. However the cumulative effect of alcohol is terrible .

Potency decreases

First of all, a conditioned reflex begins to develop, which stimulates a man to drink before sexual intercourse. However, over time, potency begins to deteriorate, as alcohol depresses sexual functions and the nervous system. A man wants to have sex less and less, but he explains this to himself by fatigue, the unattractiveness of his partner, stress, anything, not realizing that he is already on the verge of impotence.

Ejaculation comes faster

Following the weakness of sexual functions comes rapid ejaculation, even more severe decline, sluggish erection. These phenomena can be called mild impotence. Then (unexpectedly for a drinking man) there comes a moment when an erection does not occur at all. Having accepted this fact as a misfire (who doesn’t happen to him!), he may not pay attention to the case, but such situations begin to repeat themselves more and more often, until this becomes obvious.

Psychological impotence sets in

The partner begins to hint about weakness, the man’s self-esteem drops, and along with physiological impotence comes psychological impotence.

Why does alcohol cause impotence?

Long-term use of alcoholic beverages, as tests show, leads to pathological changes in the functioning of the prostate gland. Over time, the cavernous bodies of the penis lose their ability to fill with blood, and, as a result, become elastic, which leads to the depreciation of sexual intercourse. Since alcohol destroys the coordinated work of the nervous system, the drinker’s sensitivity decreases during sex. By the way, this is also the reason for the duration of sexual intercourse during intoxication, which men are so proud of. In fact, signals about excitation and inhibition simply do not reach the brain regions in time, and the person is disoriented.

The earlier a man starts drinking, the faster he becomes insolvent, often by the age of 25 he becomes impotent . If a man becomes addicted to alcohol later than puberty (after 20-22 years), then in this case his sexual functions fade away, but it is much more dangerous that he begins to degrade psychologically when he is excited by more and more primitive and rude things that are not related to subtle and high sensations. With age (around 40 years), interest in sex completely disappears, precisely because simple stimuli no longer attract, and the psyche is no longer capable of more subtle ways of self-excitation. As a result, sex becomes simply boring for a person, uninteresting, and this is the main reason for impotence, since after unwillingness there is a decrease in the number of sexual contacts and the death of sexual functions.

Some men think that the counterexample is people who drink alcohol but “keep up the good work.” But, firstly, this is an exception to the rule, and, secondly, in words, men tend to exaggerate their merits and keep silent about problems. Statistics stubbornly asserts the opposite: 50% of patients who are in the second and even in the first stage of alcoholism have systematic erectile dysfunction or even complete impotence. At the first stage, cleansing the body can help, but one must understand that the best prevention of impotence will be the maximum abstinence from drinking alcohol.

Suffering from alcoholism and showing signs of impotence? What to do?

Don’t wait until the problem gets worse in the first place. The sooner you turn to narcologists, the more effectively and quickly restore potency . Please note that drug treatment of impotence is possible, but only on condition of refusal of libations, which means that the disease should be treated only in combination.

The editors would like to thank the specialists of Alcomed for their help in preparing the material.

References

• Thapa M., Petrakis I., Ralevski E. A Comparison of Sexual Side Effects of Antidepressants With and Without Naltrexone. // J Dual Diagn – 2018 – Vol13 – N3 – p.230-235; PMID:28481169
• Erueti C., Glasziou P., Mar CD., van Driel ML. Do you think it’s a disease? a survey of medical students. // BMC Med Educ – 2012 – Vol12 – NNULL – p.19; PMID:22471875

Published as an advertisement.

Effect of alcohol on potency and erection

Quality sex largely depends on
how quickly a man has sexual desire, and for how long he can
maintain an erection during intercourse. It is believed that small doses
alcohol increase sexual desire and prolong sexual intercourse. AND
Indeed, at first this statement may be true. Let’s
let’s figure out why:

– firstly, a small amount of alcohol at the same time
soothes (liberates, removes complexes, constraint) and excites
(contributes to the rapid emergence of sexual desire). Especially this
relevant for psychologically constrained, insecure people, when a glass or two
wines can turn a shy “nerd” into a hot “macho”.

– secondly, alcohol has a vasodilating effect,
for this reason, a glass of wine drunk before sex leads to a quick erection;

– thirdly, alcohol reduces the sensitivity of skin
receptors, thus inhibiting the onset of orgasm and ejaculation, increasing
duration of sexual intercourse.

As a result, men often begin to drink alcohol before sex in order to relieve fatigue, increase arousal and demonstrate exceptional “male strength” to their partner. Alcohol and erection become constant companions in the process of sexual intercourse.

Effect of alcohol on potency in case of abuse

But the human brain is a very balanced mechanism striving for chemical balance. Frequent attempts with the help of alcohol to shift the balance towards rapid sexual arousal lead to the fact that the body compensatory reduces libido and sensitivity of the penis . As a result, increasing doses of alcohol are needed from time to time in order to achieve previous sexual success. At the slightest setbacks, the fear of sexual failure is psychologically fixed and in turn requires even larger doses of alcohol to suppress uncertainty.

Drinking a lot of alcohol causes “alcoholic
anesthesia” of the receptors of the penis, and it becomes impossible to achieve an orgasm,
no matter how long the sexual intercourse lasted.

In patients suffering from alcohol dependence, imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain is supplemented by hormonal disorders caused by prolonged exposure to ethyl alcohol on the adrenal glands, thyroid gland and pituitary gland. As a result, in a state of sobriety, libido almost completely disappears, and alcoholic impotence occurs, a flaccid erection becomes possible only in a state of intoxication, and alcoholic intoxication makes orgasm and ejaculation impossible.

Beer and potency

More pronounced hormonal changes occur when
abuse of beer, since beer contains analogues of female genital
hormones phytoestrogens. Under the influence of phytoestrogens in male
the body reduces the synthesis of the male sex hormone testosterone, which leads to
suppression of male sexual function, decreased libido and potency. Outwardly such
hormonal changes are manifested by the redistribution of body fat in
female type (the breast increases, a beer tummy and fatty
deposits in the thighs).

Follow
keep in mind that alcohol
impotence does not disappear in a week of sobriety, as it is based
changes in the sensitivity and structure of receptors, hormonal disorders and
imbalance of neurotransmitters. To restore normal chemical processes in
the body may need up to two or three
years of full sobriety .

And even if the chemical effect of alcohol on potency is eliminated, then fear,
based on the experience of previous sexual failures, can lead to
psychological impotence for many years.

Therefore, the recommendation about alcohol and sex is the same: clear
separate these two concepts and not combine them at one point in time.

But if you or your loved ones have already developed alcoholism, then the sooner addiction treatment begins, the higher the chances of maintaining sexual health for many years.

Psychiatrist-narcologist Lyudmila Anatolyevna Buter

Author of the article: psychiatrist-narcologist, candidate of medical sciences, the highest qualification category Buter Lyudmila Anatolyevna, work experience – more than 26 years.