Does alcoholism cause erectile dysfunction. Alcoholism and Erectile Dysfunction: Understanding the Impact of Alcohol on Sexual Health

21.06.202316.06.2023 by alexxlab

Does alcoholism cause erectile dysfunction. How does alcohol affect sexual performance. What are the risks of combining alcohol and sex. Can reducing alcohol intake improve sexual function. How prevalent is sexual dysfunction in alcohol-dependent men.

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The Relationship Between Alcohol and Sexual Function

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol is not an aphrodisiac. In fact, excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on sexual function for both men and women. While moderate drinking may lower inhibitions, heavy or chronic alcohol use often leads to sexual problems.

How Alcohol Impacts Male Sexual Function

For men, alcohol can interfere with sexual arousal and performance in several ways:

Depresses the central nervous system, making it difficult to achieve and maintain an erection
Reduces sexual sensitivity
Can delay or prevent orgasm
May lead to temporary or longer-term erectile dysfunction with heavy, prolonged use

Effects of Alcohol on Female Sexual Function

Women may also experience negative sexual effects from alcohol, including:

Difficulty achieving orgasm
Less intense orgasms
Decreased lubrication
Reduced sexual sensitivity

Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction in Alcohol-Dependent Men

Research indicates that sexual dysfunction is common among men with alcohol dependence. A study published in the Indian Journal of Psychiatry found that 72% of men seeking treatment for alcohol dependence reported one or more sexual dysfunction symptoms. The most common issues were:

Premature ejaculation (36%)
Low sexual desire (36%)
Erectile dysfunction (33%)

These findings highlight the significant impact that chronic heavy drinking can have on male sexual health and function.

The Link Between Alcoholism and Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent consequence of long-term alcohol abuse. But how exactly does alcoholism cause ED? There are several mechanisms at play:

Alcohol depresses the central nervous system, interfering with the brain signals that trigger an erection.
Chronic heavy drinking can damage blood vessels and nerves essential for erectile function.
Alcohol abuse often leads to hormonal imbalances, including lowered testosterone levels.
The dehydrating effects of alcohol can reduce blood volume and flow, impacting erections.
Alcohol-related liver damage can disrupt hormone metabolism crucial for sexual function.

While occasional ED after drinking is common, persistent problems may indicate a more serious alcohol-related issue requiring medical attention.

Alcohol’s Impact on Sexual Behavior and Risk-Taking

Beyond physiological effects, alcohol significantly influences sexual behavior and decision-making. Drinking lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, potentially leading to risky sexual encounters. Some concerning outcomes include:

Increased likelihood of unprotected sex
Higher risk of unplanned pregnancy
Greater chances of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Elevated risk of sexual assault or non-consensual encounters

Data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that in nearly 38% of reported rape or attempted rape cases, the victim stated the offender had been drinking. This underscores the serious link between alcohol and sexual violence.

Alcohol and Fertility: A Double-Edged Sword

For couples trying to conceive, alcohol consumption can present significant challenges. How does alcohol affect fertility in men and women?

Impact on Male Fertility

In men, alcohol can:

Lower testosterone levels
Decrease sperm production
Reduce sperm quality and motility
Cause impotence, making conception difficult

Effects on Female Fertility

For women, alcohol may:

Disrupt menstrual cycles
Affect ovulation
Increase the risk of miscarriage
Harm fetal development if pregnancy occurs

Couples planning to conceive should consider moderating their alcohol intake to optimize their chances of successful conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Guidelines for Low-Risk Drinking and Sexual Health

To minimize alcohol’s negative impact on sexual health and function, it’s crucial to follow low-risk drinking guidelines. The UK’s current recommendations advise:

No more than 14 units of alcohol per week for both men and women
Spreading drinking over three or more days
Including several alcohol-free days each week
Avoiding binge drinking episodes

Adhering to these guidelines can help reduce the risk of alcohol-related sexual dysfunction and other health issues. However, for individuals with existing alcohol-related sexual problems, abstinence or further reduction may be necessary.

Strategies for Improving Sexual Function and Reducing Alcohol Intake

If alcohol is negatively affecting your sex life, consider implementing these strategies to regain your spark:

Plan romantic, alcohol-free dates to reconnect without the influence of drinking
Introduce more drink-free days into your weekly routine
Switch to non-alcoholic alternatives during intimate evenings
Practice dinner-only drinking to limit alcohol consumption
Save money from reduced alcohol purchases for couple activities or treats
Use smartphone apps to track alcohol intake and set reduction goals
Seek support from your partner in cutting down together

Remember, your romantic life doesn’t need to revolve around alcohol. Many couples find that reducing their drinking leads to improved intimacy and sexual satisfaction.

When to Seek Professional Help

While moderate drinkers may be able to improve their sexual function by simply cutting back, individuals with alcohol dependence or persistent sexual problems should consider professional help. When should you consult a healthcare provider?

If erectile dysfunction persists even when not drinking
If you’re unable to control your alcohol intake
When sexual problems are causing relationship distress
If you experience symptoms of alcohol withdrawal when trying to cut down
When alcohol use is interfering with daily life and responsibilities

Healthcare providers can offer various treatments for alcohol-related sexual dysfunction, including medication, therapy, and referrals to addiction specialists if necessary.

The Benefits of Reducing Alcohol Consumption for Sexual Health

Cutting back on alcohol can lead to numerous improvements in sexual health and overall well-being. What positive changes might you experience?

Enhanced erectile function and sexual performance
Increased sexual sensitivity and enjoyment
Improved ability to achieve orgasm
Better judgment and decision-making in sexual situations
Reduced risk of alcohol-related sexual health complications
Improved overall health, potentially boosting libido and sexual function
Enhanced emotional intimacy with partners

Many individuals report significant improvements in their sex lives after reducing their alcohol intake, often noticing changes within weeks or months of cutting back.

Long-Term Benefits of Moderating Alcohol Use

Beyond the immediate improvements in sexual function, moderating alcohol consumption can have far-reaching benefits for your health and relationships:

Reduced risk of chronic diseases like liver cirrhosis and certain cancers
Improved cardiovascular health, which is crucial for sexual function
Better sleep quality, leading to increased energy and libido
Enhanced mental health and emotional stability
Stronger, more authentic connections with partners
Increased fertility and reproductive health

These long-term advantages underscore the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with alcohol for both sexual and overall wellness.

Addressing Alcohol-Related Sexual Problems in Relationships

When alcohol affects sexual function, it can strain relationships. How can couples navigate these challenges together?

Open communication: Discuss concerns honestly and without judgment
Mutual support: Work together to reduce alcohol consumption
Explore alternatives: Find new ways to connect intimately without alcohol
Seek couples counseling: Professional guidance can help address underlying issues
Be patient: Understand that improvement may take time
Focus on overall intimacy: Strengthen emotional bonds alongside physical intimacy
Celebrate progress: Acknowledge and reward efforts to cut back on drinking

By approaching alcohol-related sexual problems as a team, couples can strengthen their relationship while improving their sexual health.

Creating an Alcohol-Free Intimate Environment

Transitioning to an alcohol-free or low-alcohol intimate life may require some creativity. Consider these ideas:

Experiment with mocktails or non-alcoholic wines for romantic dinners
Engage in activities that naturally boost intimacy, like couple’s exercises or dance classes
Create a relaxing bedroom environment with aromatherapy or soft music
Practice mindfulness techniques together to enhance presence during intimate moments
Explore new hobbies as a couple that don’t revolve around drinking

By focusing on connection and shared experiences, couples can build a fulfilling intimate life that doesn’t rely on alcohol.

The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Improving Sexual Function

While reducing alcohol intake is crucial, other lifestyle factors also play a significant role in sexual health. What additional changes can enhance sexual function?

Regular exercise to improve cardiovascular health and boost libido
Balanced diet rich in nutrients that support sexual function
Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga
Adequate sleep to regulate hormones and energy levels
Quitting smoking, which can improve blood flow and sexual response
Limiting caffeine intake, especially before sexual activity
Maintaining a healthy weight to optimize hormone balance

Implementing these lifestyle changes alongside alcohol reduction can lead to significant improvements in sexual health and overall well-being.

Nutritional Support for Sexual Health

Certain nutrients are particularly beneficial for sexual function. Consider incorporating these foods into your diet:

Zinc-rich foods like oysters and pumpkin seeds for testosterone production
Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to improve blood flow
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish to support hormone balance
L-arginine sources like nuts and seeds to enhance circulation
Vitamin D from sunlight exposure or supplements for overall sexual health

A well-balanced diet not only supports sexual function but also helps mitigate the negative effects of past alcohol consumption on overall health.

Understanding and Addressing Alcohol-Induced Sexual Anxiety

Alcohol-related sexual dysfunction can lead to performance anxiety, creating a cycle of stress and sexual difficulties. How can individuals break this cycle?

Acknowledge the problem: Recognize that alcohol is affecting sexual function
Practice self-compassion: Avoid self-blame and focus on positive changes
Communicate with partners: Share concerns and work together on solutions
Gradual exposure: Slowly reintroduce sexual activity without alcohol
Mindfulness techniques: Learn to stay present during intimate moments
Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Address negative thought patterns related to sexual performance
Consider medication: Consult a healthcare provider about temporary aids for erectile function if needed

By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol-induced sexual problems, individuals can regain confidence and improve their sexual experiences.

The Importance of Patience in Recovery

Recovering from alcohol-related sexual dysfunction is a process that requires time and patience. Key points to remember include:

Sexual function may improve gradually as the body heals from alcohol’s effects
Setbacks are normal and don’t indicate failure
Consistent effort in reducing alcohol intake will yield long-term benefits
Each person’s recovery timeline is unique
Celebrating small improvements can boost motivation

With persistence and a supportive approach, many individuals successfully overcome alcohol-induced sexual problems and rediscover satisfying intimate relationships.

Is alcohol affecting your sex life?

Many people mistakenly believe that alcohol is an aphrodisiac. However, too much alcohol can actually have negative effects on your sex-life.

How alcohol affects sex

Alcohol reduces your sexual sensitivity.

For men, alcohol depresses the central nervous system which means it can make it difficult for some men to get, and keep, an erection. Drinking may also prevent or delay orgasm.¹ Drinking heavily over an extended period can even turn a temporary condition into longer term impotence.²

Like men, women may also find it more difficult to have an orgasm, or find they have orgasms that are less intense after drinking alcohol.³

If you choose to drink, the UK low risk drinking guidelines advise that it’s safest for both men and women to drink no more than 14 units a week, spread over three or more days with several drink-free days, and no bingeing.

Drinking alcohol can also affect fertility, for both men and women. Find out more here.

Be aware of the risks

Since drinking alcohol reduces inhibitions and impairs judgment, it is a common factor leading to unprotected sex, which, in turn may result in unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection (STI).⁴

And while alcohol can have harmful effects for the drinker, there is growing evidence about the harm drinking can cause for other people too. Alcohol is linked to sexual assault – data from the Office for National Statistics show that in almost two out of five (38%) cases of rape or attempted rape, the victim reported the offender had been drinking.^5,6

Having sex with someone without their consent is always a crime – no matter what the circumstances are. And spiking someone’s drink – whether with additional alcohol or another substance – is a serious offence in its own right, carrying a maximum 10-year prison sentence. ⁷

Being drunk makes you more vulnerable in general too, with statistics showing many accidents and injuries are linked to binge drinking.⁸

Find out more about drink spiking, and how to stay safe

Recapture your spark

If you want to stop alcohol affecting your sex life, a simple way to cut down is by having more drink-free days. Start by planning romantic nights that don’t involve alcohol, and make sure you stick to the low risk drinking guidelines of not regularly drinking more than 14 units a week for men and women.

Your romantic life doesn’t have to involve alcohol. If you’re ready to drink less, we have lots of tips that could help from how to enjoy drink-free dates, to alcohol-free bars. If you’ve got into the habit of drinking wine in the evenings, try dinner-only drinking or switching to a non-alcoholic drink instead. Put away the money you would have spent on alcohol, then at the end of the month, use it for something nice you can do together.

Or, if you use an app for dating why not use your smartphone to help you change your relationship with alcohol too? Whether you want to cut down, or go totally alcohol free, the MyDrinkaware app will track your units, calories and sleep quality. Download the app now, for free.

How to cut drinking together with your partner

Binge drinking

The benefits of drinking less

How to reduce the amount you and your partner drink

How to cut down on alcohol at home

Was this information helpful?

References

[1]
Palamar, J. J., Acosta, P., Ompad, D. C., & Friedman, S. R. (2018). A Qualitative Investigation Comparing Psychosocial and Physical Sexual Experiences Related to Alcohol and Marijuana Use among Adults. Archives of sexual behavior, 47(3), 757–770. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-016-0782-7

[2]
Allen, M. S., & Walter, E. E. (2018). Health-related lifestyle factors and sexual dysfunction: a meta-analysis of population-based research. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 15(4), 458-475.

[3]
Palamar, J. J., Acosta, P., Ompad, D. C., & Friedman, S. R. (2018). A Qualitative Investigation Comparing Psychosocial and Physical Sexual Experiences Related to Alcohol and Marijuana Use among Adults. Archives of sexual behavior, 47(3), 757–770. https://doi.org/10. 1007/s10508-016-0782-7

[4]
Connor, J. L., Kydd, R. M., & Dickson, N. P. (2015). Alcohol Involvement in Sexual Behaviour and Adverse Sexual Health Outcomes from 26 to 38 Years of Age. PLOS ONE, 10(8), e0135660. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0135660

[5]
UK Health Security Agency website. New evidence on alcohol-related harm to people other than the drinker (12 June 2019). https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2019/06/12/new-evidence-on-alcohol-related-harm-to-people-other-than-the-drinker/ [Accessed 11 March 2022]

[6]
Cooper M. L. (2002). Alcohol use and risky sexual behavior among college students and youth: evaluating the evidence. Journal of studies on alcohol. Supplement, (14), 101–117. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsas.2002.s14.101

[7]
Sexual Offences Act 2003. C.42. Explanatory notes. Section 61. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2003/42/notes/division/5/1/48 (Accessed 22 October 2021)

[8]
Taylor, B., Irving, H.M., Kanteres, F., Room, R., Borges, G., Cherpitel, C., Greenfield, T. and Rehm, J. (2010). The more you drink, the harder you fall: a systematic review and meta-analysis of how acute alcohol consumption and injury or collision risk increase together. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 110(1-2), 108-116.

Last Reviewed: 9th June 2022

Next Review due: 9th June 2022

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Alcohol and erectile dysfunction

Can alcohol abuse really cause erectile dysfunction?

Yes, the evidence from studies carried out in different countries across the globe is overwhelming: there is a clear and definite correlation between excessive alcohol consumption and erectile dysfunction. However, what men worldwide are not so clear on is why heavy drinking can harm their sexual performance.

“There are, in fact, numerous interrelated reasons why erectile dysfunction commonly occurs through regularly misusing alcohol” Thomas* explains. “Knowing what I know now (post-rehab), I would never have misused alcohol so flagrantly.”

Does alcohol cause permanent erectile dysfunction?

If you abuse alcohol, and are concerned about your drinking’s impact on sexual function, the smartest thing you can do is to stop drinking altogether. The best way to do that is to seek professional help for alcoholism.

If alcohol abuse is persistent, it can induce long-term sexual dysfunction that can ultimately lead to distress and mental health problems. When blood flow to the brain is interrupted, the parts of the brain that influence sexual response and physiological reactions to stimuli will not function as they should, almost inevitably resulting in erection problems.

Thomas explains soon after moving from being a moderate drinker to an alcoholic, he noticed alcohols detrimental effects on his sexual performance. Thomas says “Although – with so many of the team drinking every night like there was no tomorrow – I am certain that I was not the only person in the office struggling with what is an intensely personal issue.”

Can you reverse alcohol induced erectile dysfunction?

It’s difficult to say if you can reverse erectile dysfunction as each and every body is different. However, there are some things you can do to help get your body as healthy as possible and return to your normal performance levels.

Men whose regular alcohol consumption level is high, may also maintain a poor diet. Lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet consisting of processed foods and sugary snacks is bad for the heart. As erectile dysfunction is all about blood flow, neglecting your heart can lead to problems.

Steps you can take:

Eat a balanced diet
Exercise regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Strive to sustain a good work/life balance
Try to avoid stress (at work and at home)
Don’t let anyone tell you that erectile dysfunction is “to be expected, as you age”. This is not always true
And finally – reduce your alcohol intake and get help now

It’s important to note that if you are alcohol dependant, you shouldn’t immediately stop drinking alcohol to improve your sex life. As your body is reliant on alcohol, you could suffer from serious consequences when not drinking. If you would like to detox your body from alcohol, we recommend you do this in the safety of a secure facility where you can get the medical assistance you need.

Our medically assisted detox takes anywhere between 7-10 days and allows you to rid the alcohol in your body in a safe environment.

*Names have been changed for patient safety

Contact Life Works Today

Drug addictions are challenging but with the right treatments and rehabilitation programmes, they can be resolved. Call 0808 149 7660 today to see how Life Works can support those suffering from a drug addiction.

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The effect of alcohol on erection, the effect of alcoholic beverages on libido

Reasons for drinking alcohol before sexual intercourse

There is an opinion among many men that drinking alcohol before sexual intercourse makes it brighter and longer. This statement is based on the following properties of alcohol:

it suppresses the feeling of fear, which is especially important before the first sexual intercourse in a man’s life;
helps to cope with uncertainty;
relieves stress;
struggles with depression;
temporarily raises self-esteem.

Does alcohol really have a positive effect on erection? No, the temporary euphoria from the use of strong drinks passes quickly. If physiological problems were the cause of self-doubt, the situation is aggravated, uncertainty grows.

Once in the body of a man, alcohol has the following effect:

dilates blood vessels;
causes a feeling of mild euphoria;
prolongs erection, enhances arousal.

The positive effect lasts for about half an hour, after which the body gives the opposite reaction to the use of ethyl alcohol: excitement subsides, drowsiness appears, potency decreases.

The negative effect of alcohol on male power

Doctors have proven the negative effect of alcohol on erection. If a man abuses alcohol, the following negative effects are observed:

Decreased sensitivity of the penis leading to erectile dysfunction.
Reducing the level of testosterone in the body. A man loses sexual desire, the quality of sperm decreases.
Violation of reproductive function due to atrophy of the seminal canals, decreased sperm motility.
A brain circulation disorder leading to a decrease in the production of male hormones.

Persons who abuse alcohol for a long time become impotent: their body completely loses the ability to resist the destructive effects of ethyl alcohol.

The effect of beer on potency

A good erection and alcohol in excessive doses are mutually exclusive concepts. According to doctors, only small amounts of high-quality alcohol can bring benefits.

Beer in small doses (up to half a liter per day) has the following positive effects on the body:

serves as a prevention of heart and vascular diseases;

increases appetite;

speeds up metabolism;

lowers blood cholesterol levels.

The positive effect is achieved due to the content of vitamin B, essential oils, trace elements.

Only high-quality and fresh beer has the listed positive properties. Alcoholic drinks, saturated with preservatives and dangerous impurities, are harmful in any doses.

Prolonged and excessive drinking of beer leads to a reduction in the production of male hormones, a decrease in the quality of sperm, and in some cases, to infertility. External manifestation of hormonal failure caused by a foamy drink – growth “beer” belly.

Effect of cognac on male erection

Quality cognac is used as a remedy, because it has the following beneficial effects on the body:

relieves fatigue, nervous tension;
copes with stress;
helps to feel relaxed;
promotes better absorption of ascorbic acid;
dilates blood vessels;
stimulates blood circulation in the genital area, which improves erection;
helps a man overcome the feeling of constraint, self-doubt.

The maximum daily dose of cognac is from 30 to 50 ml per day. The use of a drink in large doses negatively affects all organs and systems, inhibits sexual function.

Traditional medicine offers a special product based on cognac to quickly increase potency. To prepare it, 1 tbsp. l. the original product is combined with 2 raw quail eggs, 50 ml of mineral water and Coca-Cola, 2 tsp. Sahara. The ingredients are brought to homogeneity, the resulting remedy is drunk 20-30 minutes before the upcoming sexual intercourse.

The effect of wine on potency

Wine is credited with the ability to have a beneficial effect on the heart and blood vessels, relieve nervous tension, and improve appetite. This is true if daily dosages do not exceed 50 ml. In large quantities alcohol reduces the level of testosterone in the blood. A man who drinks a glass of wine every day at lunch or dinner (125-150 ml) runs the risk of becoming impotent by the age of 30.

To improve erection, a man can drink a glass of red wine during a romantic date with a lady. A one-time drink will have a beneficial effect on male strength, help overcome psychological barriers , will cope with the feeling of stiffness in both partners.

The maximum allowable amount of wine before intimacy is 150-200 ml. Drinking alcohol in large quantities will have the opposite effect of what is expected: a decrease in craving and arousal.

Is an erection compatible with alcoholism?

Long-term use of alcohol in large doses has a negative effect on the male body. It manifests itself in the following:

decreased sexual desire, libido;
erection problems which a man tends to explain by fatigue, nervous tension;
delayed ejaculation or lack thereof – a man ceases to experience pleasure.

The result of prolonged alcohol abuse is chronic impotence.

Alcohol does not improve sexual intercourse, does not solve physiological and psychological problems, but only “pushes back” them for a while, so that they later appear with renewed vigor. For potency to remain high, a man needs control alcohol consumption.

To restore an erection after alcohol, a person needs to give up two addictions: smoking and drinking strong drinks. If the problem is solved at the initial stage, this will be enough. If lifestyle changes do not help, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Effect of alcohol on erection, effect of alcohol on libido