Israeli Sexologist Explains Alcohol's Complex Role in Sexual Activity
Translated & summarized from Vesty by baba
Israeli sexologist Dr. Daniel Vattelmann discussed the dual effects of alcohol on sexual activity, noting that moderate consumption can reduce anxiety and increase confidence, while excessive intake can impair function and lead to risky behavior. He advises against making alcohol a requirement for sex and stresses the importance of self-awareness and non-alcoholic stress reduction.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Moderate alcohol can reduce inhibitions and anxiety before sex.
- Excessive alcohol impairs sexual function and decision-making.
- Alcohol should not be a prerequisite for sexual activity.
- Individual responses to alcohol vary significantly.
- Self-awareness and non-alcoholic stress relief are key.
Alcohol's impact on sexual activity can be both positive and negative, depending on the individual and the amount consumed, according to Israeli sexologist Dr. Daniel Vattelmann. In an interview published by La'Isha magazine on October 4, Vattelmann, a clinical sexologist and lecturer at Beit Berl Academic College, explained that small amounts of alcohol can lower inhibitions, increase confidence, and reduce anxiety, particularly beneficial for first-time encounters or casual sex.
He noted that alcohol can sometimes heighten libido, leading individuals to be more open about their desires and take more initiative. However, the problems arise when alcohol becomes a prerequisite for sex or relaxation, hindering the development of trust and security in relationships. Vattelmann stressed that intimacy can be enjoyed with or without alcohol.
Excessive alcohol consumption, conversely, can lead to poor decision-making, such as neglecting safe sex practices or engaging in unwanted sexual behavior. Vattelmann also detailed how large amounts of alcohol can impair sexual function. For men, this can manifest as erectile dysfunction or delayed ejaculation and orgasm. For women, it may result in difficulty achieving orgasm and reduced natural lubrication, making intercourse uncomfortable or painful.
Vattelmann shared a case where a man relied on alcohol to initiate sex but sometimes overconsumed, leading to erectile difficulties. Therapy focused on building confidence and intimacy without alcohol. He concluded that there is no universal "correct" dose of alcohol for sex, as effects vary greatly. The key is self-awareness regarding one's reaction to alcohol and knowing when control is lost. Vattelmann's primary advice is to avoid making alcohol a mandatory part of sex and to find non-alcoholic ways to manage stress, emphasizing that sex is fundamentally about connection and communication.