Can drinking affect my sexual behaviour?
Studies have shown that alcohol can contribute to the risk-taking behaviour that can lead to unwanted pregnancies and the contraction of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, gonorrhoea and syphilis. A survey of 16-24-year-olds (source: Define Feb 2008) found that after drinking alcohol: • 1 in 7 have had unsafe sex (i.e. without using a condom) • 1 in 5 had sex they later regretted • 1 in 10 were unable to remember whether they had sex the night before • 40% agreed that they would be more likely to have casual sex Plus, if you’re on the Pill, drink may affect whether you remember to take it, and if you get drunk, vomiting can reduce its effectiveness too. Research suggests alcohol increases desire but decreases physiological stimulation in both sexes.
