Alcohol abuse is the leading substance when it comes to decreased sexual performance. Men and women who abuse alcohol may find themselves experiencing sexual dysfunction and trouble with their reproductive health. Treatment can help, but the longer the alcohol abuse has been going on, the longer it will take to repair the damage that has been done to your sexual health. Seeking treatment is a great option for working to overcome decreased sexual performance due to alcohol abuse.
Alcohol Abuse and Sexual Performance
Alcohol, more than other substances, has a severe effect on sexual arousal. In men, this is usually seen in the form of erectile dysfunction and can affect men of all age groups. Not only can alcohol abuse affect a man’s inability to reach erection, those who do are often unable to orgasm or, conversely, struggle with premature ejaculation. The higher your blood alcohol level, the higher your chances of impotency. Because of a deficiency in testosterone levels, the testicles can actually shrink.
Sexual dysfunction can affect your life in ways you might not expect, because it is linked to distress and difficulty in relationships or even self-confidence. In turn, this could lead to self-medication and more alcohol abuse. The more you drink, the more you damage your sexual performance in both the short and long term. Although sexual dysfunction can happen to a man whether or not he has an alcohol addiction, the odds are significantly higher when alcohol abuse is a factor.
Alcohol Abuse and Male Reproductive Health
Alcohol abuse impacts a system of endocrine glands and hormones in your brain that directly affects male reproduction. This could lead to low testosterone and abnormal levels of other reproductive hormones. Studies conducted on male rats indicate that alcohol abuse affects both the reproductive functions and the health of their young. Furthermore, sperm have trouble reaching full maturity, which could be connected to infertility. Alcohol abuse also increases your risk factors for sexually transmitted infections, as you are more likely to engage in unprotected sex.
The effects of alcohol abuse on your sexual performance should be a serious consideration, especially because they are not necessarily reversible. The damage you do from a young age can stay with you in the years to come. Help is available in the form of treatment for alcoholism, which includes a variety of counseling and support resources. These resources can help you work through your personal challenges with sexual health and dysfunction, giving you an improved chance of regaining optimal health after alcohol abuse.
If you or someone you love is suffering from the effects of alcohol abuse, substance addiction or any other type of addiction, please call us today. Our addiction treatment counselors can help you deal with physical, emotional and psychological consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. A substance abuse treatment program is effective, safe and has helped many men reclaim their lives. Destination Hope is a full service drug, alcohol and dual diagnosis treatment facility in Florida for men suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues.
