Stay off the booze to pep up sex life

When Ram-esh found it difficult to get an erection, a friend suggested downing a couple of pegs before the act. “You can beat a stud,” he said.
Excited, Ramesh downed half a bottle, expecting a super performance. But to his shock and disappointment, he couldn’t even get started.
Shakespeare had once said, “Alcohol may increase your desire but it takes away your performance.” He was right but only partly. Alcohol does not boost sexual desire. On the contrary, it kills it. It is a central nervous system depressant. It numbs the nerves and inhibits the brain circuits. It also disorients the drinker. Over time, the need for higher quantities of alcohol takes over leading to addiction. Similarly women who are addicted to alcohol also find their sex life in jeopardy.
Alcohol also damages the liver which metabolises testosterone. Due to improper metabolisation, the availability of usable testosterone for the body is greatly reduced. The depressing effect on the nerves also results in reduced blood flow to the penis. Above all, a woman cannot stand a man who is sozzled, due to the ensuing bad breath.
Instead of turning to the bottle, people who are apprehensive about their sexual prowess should simply consult a professional. And if you must drink then stick to an acceptable limit.

The writer is a sexologist. dr.narayana@deccanmail.com [1]