Sidney McGill
IF YOU are able to imbibe quarts of alcoholic beverage and walk a straight line or carry on funny, uninhibited conversations with friends, then your tolerance level is commendable. It appears that you can hold your liquor. Most persons who drink alcohol are social drinkers. They enjoy having fun with good company. Social drinking is an event that helps men and women gain moral support and boost egos.
AROUSAL AND CLIMAX
Alcohol may loosen our tongues and make us the star of the party but it has the ability to make us losers in the bedroom. In Shakespeare's own words, alcohol is "lechery (that) provokes and unprovokes." In my own words, it heightens the desire for sex but can adversely affect arousal and climax. In larger doses, alcohol reduces sexual arousal in both sexes.
In men, alcohol causes erectile dysfunction in different ways. Using alcohol over long periods reduces testosterone levels and increases oestrogen levels, which can result in erectile dysfunction. Even short-term use can cause transient (temporary) erectile disorder through its sedative effect. Alcohol can also affect the nerves of the penis, causing neurogenic erectile dysfunction. It can also retard ejaculation. Alcohol can interfere with the production and quality of sperm by making them abnormal and less motile.
When alcohol-affected sperm fertilises a woman's egg, there is a greater likelihood of miscarriage or birth defect. Men who are regular drinkers will agree that sex is less enjoyable when under the influence of alcohol because alcohol makes the penis less sensitive. When men are drunk they are less interested in ensuring that their partner is gratified.
In women, alcohol reduces vaginal lubrication by reducing blood flow to the genital region. In moderate or large quantities, alcohol can make orgasm difficult to achieve for women. Long-term alcohol use can cause hormonal changes in women which cause a reduction in libido. Using alcohol in combination with depressants can further reduce an already hypoactive sexual desire.
TAKING STOCK OF SOCIAL DRINKING
If you have developed a culture of social drinking you should ask yourself, "Why do I need so much support from my friends?" If the answer seems long and complex, ask yourself the following questions: "What are the main areas of concern in my life?" and "Who can I go to for advice without being judged?"
Though social drinking provides support, it does not provide accountability. To ensure that you stay on track with your personal goals and moral values you need a relative, a fellowship, a cell group or someone whose lifestyle and advice you respect. Talk openly about personal challenges if you feel safe. If none of these outlets are available you should consider talking with a life coach or counsellor who would facilitate you getting back on track with your personal and business goals.
Your health goals are also crucial in achieving your dreams as well as balancing time for work, family, physical health and spiritual entities. Be strong, take courage and do the right things in spite of how you feel. Take greater control of your life this year.
Dr. Sidney McGill is a marriage and family therapist and executive director, Family Counselling Centre of Jamaica, St. Ann. Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
