Sober sex – the way to go
Many people use alcohol to help reduce anxiety in hopes of having a better sexual experience. But having sex while drunk or high can place you in undesirable situations, such as increasing your risk to STIs, HIV or an unplanned pregnancy. Most of the time, we end up regretting the decisions we make when under the influence. Here’s why sober sex is the way to go.
You connect more
Without being under the influence of substances, we can connect with our partner better, on an emotional and physical level. Having sex sober not only makes you feel more connected to your partner, but you also feel more confident about communicating what you’re comfortable and not comfortable with.
Physical benefits
Did you know that alcohol depresses our central nervous system, which lowers our feelings of attraction? Drinking can also cause difficulty with erections and create vaginal dryness, which makes having sex more difficult, and even painful.
Having sex sober means you can feel everything more fully leading to a better, healthier experience for both you and your partner.
You can make safer decisions
Substances can affect our judgement. Being sober means that you can make clear decisions about if and who you want to have sex with. It also means you’ll be better able to say no if you don’t want to have sex with someone, or if anything makes you feel uncomfortable.
You’re more likely to have safer sex
When under the influence, we might forget to use a condom, dental dam, or other forms of protection. We may also become more vulnerable to saying yes to someone who wants to have sex without using any protection (this could even be a long-term partner). Being sober allows you to be more alert, and you’re more likely to use protection correctly.
You lower your risk of sexual injury
Alcohol and drugs can numb a lot of your body’s nerve endings, making sexual activities that would be painful when sober, temporarily pain-free when under the influence.
However, once the high or buzz wears off, you’ll begin to feel sore. With sober sex, you’re less likely to engage in an activities that cause a sexual injury as your body is more aware of what’s painful.
The idea of sober sex might seem boring, but it has many benefits for your overall health and wellbeing. Remember to always engage in sober sex, including with your long-term partner, to avoid unwanted infections and pregnancy.
If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send a Facebook message or a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).
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