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Alcoholic Impotence: Understanding the Link Between Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction

How does alcohol consumption affect sexual function in men. What are the short-term and long-term effects of alcohol on erectile dysfunction. Can reducing alcohol intake improve sexual health. How prevalent is sexual dysfunction among men with alcohol dependence.

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The Complex Process of Achieving an Erection

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity. The process of getting an erection is intricate, involving multiple bodily systems working in harmony. These systems include:

  • The brain
  • Hormones
  • Blood vessels
  • Nerves

When sexual thoughts or physical stimulation occur, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated, triggering the release of neurotransmitters from nerves in the penis. These chemical messengers cause the muscles in the penile arteries to relax, dramatically increasing blood flow by 20 to 40 times. This influx of blood is what causes the penis to become erect.

Given the complexity of this process, ED can arise if there’s a disruption at any stage. Alcohol consumption, both acute and chronic, can interfere with various aspects of this delicate system, potentially leading to erectile difficulties.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol on Erectile Function

Even a single episode of alcohol consumption can temporarily impair a man’s ability to achieve an erection. This short-term effect is due to several factors:

Central Nervous System Depression

A 2018 study revealed that alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, slowing down the transmission of information between the brain and the penis. This can result in decreased penile sensitivity, making it more challenging to achieve and maintain an erection.

Dehydration and Blood Vessel Constriction

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it promotes fluid loss through increased urination. This dehydrating effect can lead to elevated levels of angiotensin, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. Narrowed blood vessels can restrict blood flow to the penis, potentially hindering erections.

Testosterone Suppression

Research dating back to 1998, as well as more recent animal studies, has shown that alcohol consumption can lead to a temporary decrease in circulating testosterone levels. Testosterone plays a crucial role in the production of nitric oxide, a key molecule responsible for relaxing blood vessels in the penis. With reduced testosterone, there may be insufficient nitric oxide to facilitate a proper erection.

Long-Term Consequences of Chronic Alcohol Abuse on Sexual Health

While occasional drinking may cause temporary erectile issues, chronic and heavy alcohol consumption can lead to more persistent problems. A 2021 review of studies found a significant correlation between regular alcohol consumption and ED. The long-term effects of alcohol abuse on sexual function are multifaceted:

Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction

According to a 2020 review, between 16% and 73% of chronic heavy alcohol users experience dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. This system controls many unconscious bodily functions, including those involved in achieving an erection. Erectile dysfunction is reported as the most common symptom of this alcohol-induced nervous system impairment.

Cardiovascular Disease and Blood Vessel Damage

There is a well-established link between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. While light to moderate drinking may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular issues, heavy alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular mortality.

A 2018 study demonstrated that heavy alcohol intake raises the risk of developing high blood pressure, which is a known risk factor for sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, research on both humans and animals suggests that binge drinking can cause direct damage to blood vessels, potentially impacting their ability to dilate and allow sufficient blood flow for an erection.

Alcohol Withdrawal and Its Impact on Erectile Function

When a person who drinks heavily suddenly stops consuming alcohol, they may experience alcohol withdrawal syndrome. This condition has been associated with various cardiovascular symptoms, including high blood pressure, which could potentially interfere with erectile function. Other common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Tremors
  • Anxiety
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Confusion

These symptoms typically begin 6 to 12 hours after the last drink and often peak in severity between 48 and 72 hours. While the withdrawal period may temporarily exacerbate erectile difficulties, it’s important to note that reducing alcohol intake is likely to improve sexual health in the long run.

The Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Alcohol-Dependent Males

A 2021 study conducted in India provides insight into the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among men with alcohol dependence syndrome. The study included 100 participants, of whom 48 reported experiencing sexual dysfunction. The breakdown of these issues was as follows:

  • 87.5% reported lower sex drive
  • 79.1% experienced dysfunction of sexual arousal
  • 58% suffered from erectile dysfunction
  • 54% reported difficulty reaching orgasm

These findings highlight the significant impact that alcohol dependence can have on various aspects of male sexual function, not just erectile capacity.

Alcohol’s Effects on Other Aspects of Male Sexual Function

Beyond erectile dysfunction, alcohol consumption can influence other facets of male sexual health and performance:

Ejaculation

Alcohol may delay ejaculation, which some men might perceive as a benefit. However, this effect can also lead to difficulties in achieving orgasm, potentially reducing sexual satisfaction.

Libido

The relationship between alcohol and sex drive is complex. Moderate amounts of alcohol may increase sexual desire by lowering inhibitions. However, high levels of alcohol consumption tend to suppress libido significantly.

Fertility

Chronic heavy drinking can negatively impact sperm production and quality, potentially affecting fertility. This is an important consideration for men who are trying to conceive.

The Potential for Sexual Health Improvement with Alcohol Reduction

A promising 2022 study offers hope for those struggling with alcohol-related sexual dysfunction. The research involved 104 individuals diagnosed with both alcohol use disorder and erectile dysfunction. After a three-month period of alcohol abstinence, an impressive 88.5% of participants showed improvements in their erectile function.

This study underscores the potential for sexual health recovery when alcohol consumption is reduced or eliminated. It’s important to note that while the initial withdrawal period may be challenging, the long-term benefits to sexual function can be significant.

Strategies for Reducing Alcohol Intake

For those looking to improve their sexual health by cutting back on alcohol, consider the following strategies:

  1. Set clear, achievable goals for reducing alcohol consumption
  2. Keep track of your drinking habits to increase awareness
  3. Identify and avoid triggers that lead to excessive drinking
  4. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
  5. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional about your concerns
  6. Explore non-alcoholic alternatives for social situations
  7. Practice stress-management techniques to reduce reliance on alcohol

When to Seek Professional Help for Erectile Dysfunction

Experiencing occasional erectile difficulties, particularly after drinking, is normal and usually not a cause for concern. However, there are circumstances where it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider:

  • Persistent erectile problems lasting several weeks or months
  • ED accompanied by other sexual health issues, such as premature ejaculation or loss of libido
  • Erectile difficulties causing significant distress or relationship problems
  • Concerns about alcohol dependence or inability to reduce alcohol intake
  • Presence of other health conditions that may contribute to ED, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease

A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or counseling.

The Broader Impact of Alcohol on Sexual Health Across Genders

While this article focuses primarily on male erectile dysfunction, it’s worth noting that alcohol can affect sexual function in people of all genders. Some common effects observed in individuals assigned female at birth include:

  • Vaginal dryness, which can lead to discomfort during intercourse
  • Difficulty achieving orgasm
  • Changes in sexual desire, with small amounts potentially increasing libido but larger amounts decreasing arousal

These effects highlight the importance of responsible alcohol consumption for maintaining overall sexual health, regardless of gender.

The Role of Communication in Addressing Alcohol-Related Sexual Issues

Open and honest communication with sexual partners about alcohol’s effects on sexual function can help reduce anxiety and foster understanding. This dialogue can lead to mutual support in adopting healthier habits and exploring alternative ways to enhance intimacy that don’t rely on alcohol.

Alcohol and Sexual Health: A Balancing Act

Understanding the relationship between alcohol consumption and sexual health is crucial for making informed decisions about drinking habits. While moderate alcohol use may not pose significant risks for most individuals, chronic heavy drinking can lead to persistent sexual dysfunction and other health problems.

For those experiencing alcohol-related sexual difficulties, reducing alcohol intake or seeking professional help can lead to significant improvements in sexual function and overall well-being. Remember that sexual health is an important component of general health and quality of life, and taking steps to address alcohol-related issues can have far-reaching positive effects.

As research in this field continues to evolve, it’s clear that maintaining a balanced approach to alcohol consumption is key to preserving sexual health and function. By staying informed and making conscious choices about alcohol use, individuals can take proactive steps to protect and enhance their sexual well-being.

Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction: What’s the Link?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity.

The process of getting an erection is complex and involves your:

  • brain
  • hormones
  • blood vessels
  • nerves

Consuming alcohol can affect all of these parts of your body and can contribute to the development of ED.

Consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time, such as a single evening, can cause changes that make it more difficult to get an erection. These changes can occur in your:

  • nervous system
  • hormone levels
  • circulation

Chronic (long-term) overconsumption of alcohol can cause permanent damage to your blood vessels and nerves.

Read on as we take a deeper look at how alcohol contributes to ED.

Getting an erection is a complex process, and ED can occur if there’s a problem during any step.

Sexual thoughts or stimulation of the penis activate the parasympathetic nervous system and the release of neurotransmitters from nerves in the penis. These neurotransmitters relax the muscles in the arteries of the penis, which increases blood flow by 20 to 40 times.

Short-term causes of ED

A temporary inability to get an erection can happen after consuming any type of alcohol.

According to a 2018 study, short-term consumption of alcohol depresses your central nervous system and slows down the transmission of information between your brain and penis. This can lead to decreased sensitivity of the penis.

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it’s dehydrating and increases urination. Dehydration can lead to increased levels of the hormone angiotensin, which narrows blood vessels. Angiotensin can limit blood flow to the penis.

According to older 1998 research and more recent animal studies, alcohol can also lead to a drop in circulating levels of testosterone. Testosterone deficiency limits nitric oxide production, which is the key molecule that relaxes the blood vessels in your penis.

Chronic effects of alcohol

Chronically consuming large amounts of alcohol can damage your nerves, raise your risk of cardiovascular disease, and damage blood vessels, all of which can impact your ability to get an erection.

A 2021 review of studies found a significant relationship between regular alcohol consumption and ED.

Nervous system dysfunction

According to a 2020 review, anywhere from 16 to 73 percent of chronic heavy alcohol users experience dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. The most common symptom is ED. Your autonomic nervous system largely controls functions that are unconscious.

Cardiovascular disease and blood vessel damage

It’s well established that ED is closely related to cardiovascular disease.

According to a 2018 review, light to moderate drinking is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while heavy consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality.

A 2018 study found that heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for sexual dysfunction.

Results from human and animal studies suggest that binge drinking is associated with blood vessel damage.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome develops when a person who drinks heavily suddenly stops drinking. It’s been linked to cardiovascular symptoms such as high blood pressure that could potentially interfere with the ability to get an erection.

Other common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • tremors
  • anxiety
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • headaches
  • high blood pressure
  • irritability
  • confusion

Symptoms usually start 6 to 12 hours after your last drink and are usually most severe after 48 to 72 hours.

Although reducing your alcohol intake may cause short-term symptoms that contribute to ED, it will likely improve your sexual health in the long run.

In a 2022 studyof 104 people with alcohol use disorder and ED, 88.5 percent showed improvements in ED after 3 months of not consuming alcohol.

Alcohol can affect sexual function in people of all genders in a variety of ways.

A 2021 study in India included 100 participants who were categorized as males with alcohol dependence syndrome. The researchers found that 48 participants had sexual dysfunction. Of those 48:

  • 87.5 percent reported lower sex drive
  • 79.1 percent had dysfunction of sexual arousal
  • 58 percent had ED
  • 54 percent reported difficulty reaching orgasm

Alcohol consumption may also:

  • delay ejaculation
  • increase sex drive with moderate amounts of alcohol, but lower sex drive with high amounts of alcohol

In people assigned female at birth, alcohol may:

  • lead to vaginal dryness
  • make it more difficult to orgasm
  • increase sexual desire with small amounts of alcohol but decrease sexual arousal with large amounts of alcohol

Experiencing ED occasionally is normal and no reason for concern. It can occur if you’ve been drinking or feeling stressed or anxious.

However, it’s a good idea to see a doctor if it becomes a regular problem. Sometimes ED can be a sign of an underlying health condition like high blood pressure.

It’s also a good idea to see a doctor if you think you may have a problem with alcohol. Signs of alcohol use disorder include:

  • drinking alone and in secrecy
  • losing interest in activities other than drinking
  • craving alcohol
  • experiencing withdrawal symptoms
  • making drinking a priority over other responsibilities
  • drinking in the morning
  • inability to control the amount of alcohol you consume
  • alcohol contributing to financial or family problems

Consuming alcohol can contribute to the development of ED by:

  • slowing down your central nervous system
  • causing dehydration
  • lowering your testosterone levels

Long-term consumption of alcohol can lead to damage to your blood vessels and nerves.

It’s normal to experience ED every now and then, especially when you’re drinking.

If you regularly have trouble maintaining an erection when you’re sober or after only drinking small amounts of alcohol, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor to rule out an underlying health condition.

Alcohol and Erectile Dysfunction: What’s the Link?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an inability to get or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity.

The process of getting an erection is complex and involves your:

  • brain
  • hormones
  • blood vessels
  • nerves

Consuming alcohol can affect all of these parts of your body and can contribute to the development of ED.

Consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time, such as a single evening, can cause changes that make it more difficult to get an erection. These changes can occur in your:

  • nervous system
  • hormone levels
  • circulation

Chronic (long-term) overconsumption of alcohol can cause permanent damage to your blood vessels and nerves.

Read on as we take a deeper look at how alcohol contributes to ED.

Getting an erection is a complex process, and ED can occur if there’s a problem during any step.

Sexual thoughts or stimulation of the penis activate the parasympathetic nervous system and the release of neurotransmitters from nerves in the penis. These neurotransmitters relax the muscles in the arteries of the penis, which increases blood flow by 20 to 40 times.

Short-term causes of ED

A temporary inability to get an erection can happen after consuming any type of alcohol.

According to a 2018 study, short-term consumption of alcohol depresses your central nervous system and slows down the transmission of information between your brain and penis. This can lead to decreased sensitivity of the penis.

Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it’s dehydrating and increases urination. Dehydration can lead to increased levels of the hormone angiotensin, which narrows blood vessels. Angiotensin can limit blood flow to the penis.

According to older 1998 research and more recent animal studies, alcohol can also lead to a drop in circulating levels of testosterone. Testosterone deficiency limits nitric oxide production, which is the key molecule that relaxes the blood vessels in your penis.

Chronic effects of alcohol

Chronically consuming large amounts of alcohol can damage your nerves, raise your risk of cardiovascular disease, and damage blood vessels, all of which can impact your ability to get an erection.

A 2021 review of studies found a significant relationship between regular alcohol consumption and ED.

Nervous system dysfunction

According to a 2020 review, anywhere from 16 to 73 percent of chronic heavy alcohol users experience dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system. The most common symptom is ED. Your autonomic nervous system largely controls functions that are unconscious.

Cardiovascular disease and blood vessel damage

It’s well established that ED is closely related to cardiovascular disease.

According to a 2018 review, light to moderate drinking is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, while heavy consumption is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality.

A 2018 study found that heavy alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a risk factor for sexual dysfunction.

Results from human and animal studies suggest that binge drinking is associated with blood vessel damage.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome develops when a person who drinks heavily suddenly stops drinking. It’s been linked to cardiovascular symptoms such as high blood pressure that could potentially interfere with the ability to get an erection.

Other common withdrawal symptoms include:

  • tremors
  • anxiety
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • headaches
  • high blood pressure
  • irritability
  • confusion

Symptoms usually start 6 to 12 hours after your last drink and are usually most severe after 48 to 72 hours.

Although reducing your alcohol intake may cause short-term symptoms that contribute to ED, it will likely improve your sexual health in the long run.

In a 2022 studyof 104 people with alcohol use disorder and ED, 88.5 percent showed improvements in ED after 3 months of not consuming alcohol.

Alcohol can affect sexual function in people of all genders in a variety of ways.

A 2021 study in India included 100 participants who were categorized as males with alcohol dependence syndrome. The researchers found that 48 participants had sexual dysfunction. Of those 48:

  • 87.5 percent reported lower sex drive
  • 79.1 percent had dysfunction of sexual arousal
  • 58 percent had ED
  • 54 percent reported difficulty reaching orgasm

Alcohol consumption may also:

  • delay ejaculation
  • increase sex drive with moderate amounts of alcohol, but lower sex drive with high amounts of alcohol

In people assigned female at birth, alcohol may:

  • lead to vaginal dryness
  • make it more difficult to orgasm
  • increase sexual desire with small amounts of alcohol but decrease sexual arousal with large amounts of alcohol

Experiencing ED occasionally is normal and no reason for concern. It can occur if you’ve been drinking or feeling stressed or anxious.

However, it’s a good idea to see a doctor if it becomes a regular problem. Sometimes ED can be a sign of an underlying health condition like high blood pressure.

It’s also a good idea to see a doctor if you think you may have a problem with alcohol. Signs of alcohol use disorder include:

  • drinking alone and in secrecy
  • losing interest in activities other than drinking
  • craving alcohol
  • experiencing withdrawal symptoms
  • making drinking a priority over other responsibilities
  • drinking in the morning
  • inability to control the amount of alcohol you consume
  • alcohol contributing to financial or family problems

Consuming alcohol can contribute to the development of ED by:

  • slowing down your central nervous system
  • causing dehydration
  • lowering your testosterone levels

Long-term consumption of alcohol can lead to damage to your blood vessels and nerves.

It’s normal to experience ED every now and then, especially when you’re drinking.

If you regularly have trouble maintaining an erection when you’re sober or after only drinking small amounts of alcohol, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor to rule out an underlying health condition.

Alcoholic impotence. Recovery therapy. Prevention.

Alcoholic impotence is a disease associated with excessive alcohol consumption. Sooner or later, people who abuse alcohol have a serious disorder in the sexual sphere. Typically, this is a sexual disorder that affects men who abuse alcohol between the ages of 30 and 60. Alcohol contributes to the formation of early impotence, which qualifies as alcoholic impotence.

Alcoholic impotence is treatable. We have dealt with this kind of problem many times. However, if a person wants to get rid of alcohol impotence, he must undergo a full cycle of anti-alcohol therapy.

What is alcoholic impotence

Alcoholic impotence is the degree of erectile dysfunction, in which the patient fails to achieve the increase and elasticity of the penis to the desired size. Impotence in patients with alcoholism occurs at the second or third stage of alcohol dependence. An alcoholic cannot achieve normal sexual intercourse with a normal erection in the proper volume.

Due to the long time of drinking alcohol in the centers responsible for excitation, as well as in the vessels of the penis, irreversible changes occur, which are extremely difficult to cure.

There is a common misconception that alcohol not only works great as a stimulant, but also increases the duration of sexual intercourse between a man and a woman. This opinion has its own rational grain, when a person drinks alcohol for a short time, his penis really increases, and the erection is very intense. But over time, the reverse process is observed. Alcohol also delays the onset of ejaculation at the initial stage of drinking.

Development of alcoholic impotence

Drinking intercourse becomes a habit for a person, he begins to feel confident and comfortable. With further use of alcoholic beverages, the desire to have sexual contact comes less and less, and sexual function is gradually suppressed.

Sexual dysfunction can be detected in 30-50% of patients who are in a state of 1-2 stages of alcohol dependence. Further, people begin to feel an acute dullness of sensations during intercourse. The shape of spermatozoa changes, their mobility decreases.

Erectile function changes slightly in that part of patients in which alcoholism begins in adulthood and late age. In adolescence, alcoholism is especially dangerous. A guy who starts drinking at 15 becomes bankrupt as a man by the age of 25 and cannot reproduce healthy offspring.

In the event that alcohol dependence is present at the initial stage of the formation of a married couple, obvious disharmony in the relationship between husband and wife arises after 5-6 years. This is connected, among other things, with the sexual dissatisfaction of women.

Jealousy and alcohol

Alcoholics are very jealous. This postulate is irrefutable. An alcoholic is able to arrange a scene of jealousy with assault at the slightest delay of a woman from work for 10-15 minutes. This is due to the inner fear of losing a woman.

Jealousy becomes the source of the husband’s disgusting mood, his suspicion, lethargy in bed and aggression. All this is the result of a feeling of inferiority as a man and a decrease in self-esteem against the backdrop of a progressive social decline. A change in the personality of an alcoholic, his aggressive behavior becomes an occasion for a family scene, and the life of a loved one from these scandals turns into a real nightmare and horror.

Jealousy and fear of losing are the key moments of alcohol delirium, the life of a loved one becomes simply unbearable for others.

Treatment of alcohol impotence

Recovery of potency is a very important step in the treatment of alcohol dependence. In order to completely rid the patient of fear and self-doubt, to return him to a normal erection, it is necessary to constantly monitor the condition of the sick person. In 95% of cases, erectile dysfunction can be restored and treated, but only 10% of patients actually seek help from doctors and psychologists.

Reasons why men do not go for voluntary treatment:

  • Unwillingness to recognize the severity of the problem
  • Modesty and cowardice
  • Fear of making matters worse
  • Apathy and other mental problems
  • Lack of interest in sex
  • Fear of the treatment itself and talking to a specialist

There are a number of signs by which one can determine the lack of normal potency in a man with alcoholism.

Cause for concern

  • Avoids intimacy – comes home late, sleeps in different beds, hiding his difficulties.
  • Does not initiate intercourse first.
  • Hiding from offers and allusions to sex.

A partner can help the patient to work through complexes and start leading a healthy, sexually active lifestyle, but he himself must be active in seeking help from doctors and take measures to enter into intimacy.

Misconceptions about alcohol impotence

Moderate doses of alcohol help a person focus on sex and get real genuine pleasure from sexual intercourse , alcohol really helps to relax and quickly bring the distance closer if the partners are new to each other. In the event that the patient consumes alcohol regularly, a decrease in sexual desire is simply inevitable. In this case, a person is constantly oppressed by the amount of alcohol consumed and does not relax during intercourse.

The role of alcohol in reducing erection

Studies have shown that countries with the highest levels of alcoholism per capita, including Russia, become countries with the highest levels of impotence. Any partner of an alcoholic will prove that her husband’s alcohol consumption significantly affected his potency level and reduced his desire to have regular sex.

What are the body changes that affect potency with regular alcohol consumption?

First, alcohol affects the endocrine glands: the pituitary gland, adrenal glands, thyroid gland, which disrupts the balance of hormones and affects the prostate. As a result of a decrease in testosterone levels, overall sexual activity is disrupted. Alcohol can cause testicular atrophy, making them flabby and weak. The result of such a negative impact on the male body is male infertility, which seriously affects the quality of sex.

Secondly, alcohol affects the part of the brain that is responsible for excitement and pleasure, which also causes a lack of a normal erection in a man. And, thirdly, the oppressed psyche of an alcoholic does not give full-fledged sensations of joy during orgasm and the fulfillment of the sexual intercourse itself.

The success of the treatment of alcoholic impotence

At the initial stage of the development of disorders, it is enough to stop or limit the drinking of alcoholic beverages, which makes it possible to restore the human body and make a man complete in bed. If alcoholization is of a long-term nature, and the man is at a stage when there are serious changes, treatment by specialists is needed. Timely therapy and the adoption of preventive measures help to fully restore the erectile function of a man. To do this, you must complete a full course of treatment for anti-alcohol impotence in the clinic.

Physiotherapy and intravenous infusions are popular among modern treatments for erectile dysfunction. Restoring an erection with popular stimulant drugs such as Viagra and others is effective only at first. If you do not carry out complex therapy, their effect will weaken and then come to naught. In extreme cases, phalloprosthesis is used.

articles of the medical center Oxford Medical Ivano-Frankivsk

Trisch Vladimir Ivanovich – doctor urologist, andrologist, sexologist of the highest category, candidate of medical sciences, chief physician of the medical center “Oxford Medical Ivano-Frankivsk”

In today’s society, talk about male potency is reduced to jokes and anecdotes that men like to share with a mug of beer. No matter how ironic it may sound, but over time, these jokes become more and more relevant and become completely sad.

How does alcohol affect potency?

First, it should be noted that many men drink alcohol before intercourse, because they sincerely believe that a certain dose of alcohol can improve stamina and delay ejaculation for as long as possible. Also, in their opinion, alcohol will help overcome stress and fatigue, increase sexual desire. This is partly true, but, depending on the dose and the so-called “experience” of drinking, a person will feel the same negative effects.

Let’s try to understand how alcohol works. In small doses, alcohol excites the nervous system – hence the increase in sexual desire, the decrease in inhibitory functions. Also, alcohol promotes vasodilation (vasodilation), which contributes to an instant erection. Well, the main effect for which men like to drink before sex is the inhibition of sensitivity, which postpones ejaculation and prolongs sexual intercourse. The goal is to surprise the sexual partner and strengthen your male “ego”.

Consequences of long-term alcohol consumption

Unfortunately, every milligram of alcohol does not pass without a trace. As noted above, the more and more intensively a person consumes alcohol, the faster he will feel the side effects.

At first, a person understands that in order to maintain the effect, each time the dose of alcohol should be increased, and this is a direct path to alcohol dependence, it will be accompanied by mood lability, disturbance of all organs and systems, and, of course, disorders of men’s health. It begins to reduce erotic dreams (2-3 dreams per month – the norm), then long and painful ejaculation, reduced libido. In the future – problems in the family, at work and ruined their own lives.

By the way, men believe that beer is much safer than vodka or cognac, relying solely on ppm indicated on the label of the drink. But, I should note that in fact beer is more harmful. This is due to the high content of phytoestrogens in beer – analogues of female hormones that completely rebuild the hormonal background of a man. And this brings serious changes in erectile function. Also, drinks containing alcohol significantly increase appetite, so beer lovers can boast of a beer belly and a few extra pounds.

How to fix erection problems?

In fact, awareness of the problem is a big step towards solving it, because almost every man finds it difficult to accept the fact that he has problems in bed, it is even more difficult to admit problems with alcohol. To eliminate the problem, you should adhere to the following rules:

  • refuse to drink alcohol;
  • eliminate intoxication;
  • review the diet – more vitamins, minerals, proteins and zinc;
  • adequate rest and normal sleep
  • gradual cessation of smoking.

And the last important point – consult a doctor who will help you choose an individual effective treatment.