FirstMed Consulting Blog

Most men will be familiar with the term “brewer’s droop” - a temporary form of alcohol related erectile dysfunction that occurs when the average drinker consumes “one too many.” Alcohol releases sexual inhibitions, intensifies libido and temporarily enhances feelings of wellbeing and self-esteem. But over-consumption gradually depresses those fleeting moments of euphoria and even moderate amounts can spoil the capacity to perform. Up to 80 percent of men who drink heavily are believed to have serious sexual side effects, including erectile dysfunction, sterility, or loss of sexual desire.

Alcohol affects the nervous system and impairs the impulses between the brain’s pituitary gland and the genitals. The nervous system is responsible for triggering the signals that dilate and relax the blood vessels in the penis, resulting in an erection. Clinical studies have shown that prolonged alcohol abuse causes irreversible damage to the nerves in the penis, which results in alcohol erectile dysfunction. While a few drinks might temporarily dull inhibitions and anxiety about sexual activity, larger doses (BACs > .06) will lead to loss of sensation, inability to reach orgasm, and temporary impotence. At blood levels between .05 and .10, alcohol retards sexual arousal, at levels above .10, orgasm is inhibited, and levels above .15 can cause temporary impotence.

Alcohol also disrupts hormone levels, in particular, testosterone and oestrogen. Low levels of testosterone diminish sexual drive and function. Heavy drinking over a long period of time can irreversibly destroy testicular cells, leaving men with shrunken testicles. Alcohol may also interfere with normal sperm structure and movement by inhibiting the metabolism of Vitamin A, which is essential for sperm development

Excessive drinking also results in behavioral changes that reduce sexual desire and inhibit sexual performance. Concentration and judgment become cloudy and physical activity and movement are impaired. Abuse of alcohol is often associated with other negative factors like smoking, over eating, lack of exercise and drug abuse.

In addition to the physical toxic effects of excess alcohol on the body’s tissues, many alcoholics also have significant psychological problems. Depression, stress and anxiety are often cited as reasons for excessive drinking. But these same psychological factors are also leading causes of ED. So it should come as no surprise that heavy drinkers are more susceptible to alcohol induced erectile dysfunction.