Alcohol consumption was found to have a positive effect on sexual arousal in both males and females.
The good news is drinking alcohol could help you have more pleasurable sexual experiences! The bad news? It could also have the opposite effect.
As a social lubricant, alcohol has the potential to enhance intimacy and pleasure, but it can also lead to regretful decisions and decreased sexual function. In this two-part series, we will take a closer look at alcohol and sex, its pros and cons, and its effect on our sexual lives.
First, let’s stick to the good news.
The Surprising Advantages of Drinking and Doing It
When it comes to our sexual experiences, alcohol often gets a bad reputation. However as with all things, it’s necessary to keep moderation in mind. Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as no more than two standard drinks per day for men and no more than one standard drink per day for women, according to the Australian Alcohol Guidelines (National Health and Medical Research Council, 2009).
With Australia defining a standard drink as containing 10 grams of alcohol, this is roughly equivalent to a 100ml glass of wine, a 375ml can of beer, or a 30ml shot of spirits.
Below are some key findings of research into the moderate consumption of alcohol and its impacts on our sexual experiences.
Alcohol and sex - Increased Sexual Desire
According to a study by Byers & McCormick (2008), alcohol has been shown to increase sexual desire in some individuals, particularly in females. Another study published in the Journal of Sex Research (Mehmedic, 2019) found that alcohol can reduce sexual inhibitions and increase sexual confidence in individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.
So, if you're feeling a little shy or hesitant to take the lead in the bedroom, a drink or two might help you be more open about your sexual needs and embrace your desires.
Reduced Sexual Inhibitions
One of the most well-known effects of alcohol is its ability to reduce inhibitions. This is also true when it comes to sex.
Alcohol can make individuals feel more comfortable engaging in sexual activity and reduce self-consciousness (Lammers, Stoker, Jordan, Pollmann, & Stapel, 2011).
With that, if you're feeling timid or anxious, having a drink or two might help you unwind and have a good time.
Improved Sexual Function
If you’ve ever felt like you have more pleasurable sexual experiences after you’ve had a drink, there is research to show that this likely could be true.
According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine (Rosen, 1997), moderate alcohol consumption was found to have a positive effect on sexual arousal in both males and females.
Moderate alcohol consumption has been shown to have a positive effect on sexual function by increasing blood flow to the genital area. This increased blood flow can lead to increased sensitivity and enhance your body’s responses to sexually intimate activities.
Enhanced Intimate Connections
Studies have shown that consuming alcohol can increase the sense of intimacy and emotional connection between partners, resulting in a better sexual experience (Cooper, Shapiro, & Supple, 1987).
So, if you and your partner have been feeling a bit disconnected lately, why not grab a drink together and reignite the passion in your relationship? Just remember, moderation is key.
Moderate alcohol consumption can have positive effects on sexual desire and overall sexual experience.
However, it's important to remember that excessive drinking can lead to negative consequences. Therefore, if you're looking to add a little extra spark to your sexual life, consider having a drink or two if you choose to, but always drink responsibly and in moderation.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2021). Alcohol and Public Health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm
- Gazzaruso, C., Solerte, B. S., Pujia, A., Giusti, C., & Maggi, M. (2000). Effect of alcohol on hormonal secretion in healthy men. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, 23(9), 648-652.
- Gupta, B. C., Kiyoshi, M., & Lue, T. F. (2008). Alcohol use and sexual dysfunctions. International Journal of Impotence Research, 20(4), 408-416.
- King, M., & Fisher, W. A. (2010). Alcohol and sexual decision making. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 19(1), 69-72.
- Moyad, M. A., & Ward, D. P. (2018). Alcohol and sexual performance and pleasure: a review of the literature. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 93(9), 1296-1307.
- Nelson, L. J., Thomas, K. A., & Mark, K. P. (2013). The effects of alcohol on sexual decision making. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 42(3), 557-566.