Many people feel that drinking alcohol helps them to relax, lowers their inhibitions, and allows them to feel more confident during sex. Research confirms that, when used in moderation, alcohol is often associated with increased socialization, improved feelings of personal attractiveness and attraction toward others, and reduced inhibitions. While it may seem appealing, this dynamic may not always be beneficial for a person’s sexual health, and excessive alcohol consumption can be especially detrimental to a person’s sex life in a number of ways. (Keep in mind that moderate alcohol consumption is generally defined as no more than one drink a day for women and no more than two drinks a day for men).

Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with:

• Reduced genital response in both men and women. Drinking too much alcohol can create a numbing effect on the genitals, reducing sensation during sex and potentially making it more difficult for individuals to reach orgasm. Women often report a lack of vaginal lubrication due to alcohol use, and men may experience erectile difficulties if they overindulge.
• Sensation-seeking behavior that may lead to risky sexual experiences. Alcohol can make individuals feel less self-conscious and less concerned about potentially negative consequences, which can lead to greater risk-taking. Many studies have indicated that alcohol overconsumption is associated with inconsistent condom use. Additionally, a high frequency of heavy drinking episodes has been associated with a higher incidence of sexually transmitted infection (STI), a greater number of unplanned pregnancies, regretted sexual experiences, and more sexual partners. (While a greater number of sexual partners is nothing to be ashamed of when all parties are consenting adults, it is important to engage in safe sex with new partners to maintain your sexual and overall health).
• A greater prevalence of sexual dysfunction, especially among individuals who are dependent on alcohol. Research has shown that men with alcohol dependence syndrome are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction (ED) and/or less satisfactory orgasms. Women who are dependent on alcohol are at higher risk of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and may be more likely to struggle with low sexual desire, inability to reach orgasm, dissatisfaction with orgasm, and lack of vaginal lubrication. What’s more, these sexual health problems have been shown to be exacerbated by the amount of alcohol consumed in a day and the length of time that an individual has been dependent on alcohol.
• Sexual assault and violence. Alcohol is never an excuse for violence, but unfortunately, excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with increased incidence of sexual assault. It is imperative that all participants in any sexual encounter consciously consent to each sexual activity. An individual who is incapacitated by alcohol is not able to give their conscious consent to sexual activity.

Key takeaways:

• Consuming too much alcohol may impair a person’s sexual response and/or diminish a sexual experience. It is a good idea to monitor your alcohol consumption if you may engage in sexual activity and wish to perform to the best of your ability.
• Overindulgence can lead to riskier decision-making in the moment. You can protect your sexual health by being prepared with condoms if you may engage in sexual activity.
• Consent is essential for every sexual encounter. If a person is incoherent, confused, or passed out as a result of alcohol, they are unable to give consent for sexual activity. Ask potential partners directly if any sexual action is okay, and never pressure someone to engage in sexual activity.

Resources:

• 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
  
  
• George, W.H., Davis, K.C., Heiman, J.R., Norris, J., Stoner, S.A., Schacht, R.L., Hendershot, C.S., & Kajumulo, K.F. (2011). Women's sexual arousal: effects of high alcohol dosages and self-control instructions. Hormones and behavior, 59(5), 730–738. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2011.03.006
  
  
• Iranpour, A., & Nakhaee, N. (2019). A Review of Alcohol-Related Harms: A Recent Update. Addiction & health, 11(2), 129–137. https://doi.org/10.22122/ahj.v11i2.225
  
  
• 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
  
  
• Palamar, J.J., Griffin-Tomas, M., Acosta, P., Ompad, D. C., & Cleland, C.M. (2018). A comparison of self-reported sexual effects of alcohol, marijuana, and ecstasy in a sample of young adult nightlife attendees. Psychology and sexuality, 9(1), 54–68. https://doi.org/10.1080/19419899.2018.1425220
  
  
• Prabhakaran, D.K., Nisha, A., & Varghese, P.J. (2018). Prevalence and correlates of sexual dysfunction in male patients with alcohol dependence syndrome: A cross-sectional study. Indian journal of psychiatry, 60(1), 71–77. https://doi.org/10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_42_17