Should I drink alcohol before having sexual intercourse?

Answer:

The American Heart Association states that consuming under 150 ml of red wine daily may benefit heart health, blood circulation, relaxation, confidence, and potentially sexual activity. Specifically, one to two glasses of light wine before intimate moments can improve blood circulation, increase excitement, and make the body feel more energized and sexually aroused.

A couple toasting. Illustation photo by Freepik

However, overindulging in alcohol before sexual activity can cause bodily dysfunction, control loss, and reduced self-awareness. Alcohol’s effects might prevent adequate sobriety, risking severe injuries like penile fractures in men or vaginal perforations in women. Additionally, it can lead to unsafe sexual practices, potentially resulting in disease transmission.

Excessive alcohol use also heightens the risks of high blood pressure, heart failure, liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, stomach ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome. It can decrease sexual and reproductive health functions.

Men should limit themselves to no more than 720 ml of beer, 300 ml of wine, or 60 ml of whisky daily. Women are advised to consume no more than 360 ml of beer, 150 ml of wine, or 30 ml of whisky. Children and adolescents should abstain from alcohol.

Dr. Phan Chi Thanh

National Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology