Addiction / Alcohol & Substance Abuse
Alcohol
When a small amount of alcohol is consumed, the person's sexual inhibitions may dampen, while the sexual desire is enhanced. When the alcohol intake is increased, the person's decision-making process may become impaired, thus predisposing the person to risky sexual behaviour.
Alcohol also affects the body's ability to respond to sexual stimuli (i.e. arousal). High alcohol consumption is linked to erectile difficulties and vaginal arousal difficulties, amongst other health problems.
Caritas Malta offers a support group for those wishing to stop.
Sedqa offers support and treatment for those wishing to stop.
Substance use
Drug use can impair cognitive judgement and lower inhibitions, making a person more susceptible to engaging in risky sexual behaviour. The effects of different drugs on sexual behaviour and health will vary, however, in high doses, most drugs are linked to loss of sexual desire. Drug use can also lead to arousal and orgasmic disorders.
Caritas Malta offers drug rehabilitation programmes, to offer support and treatment to those wishing to stop using drugs.
Sedqa offer support and treatment for those wishing to stop.
Smoking
Nicotine narrows blood vessels, thus limiting blood flow throughout the body, including to sexual organs. Smokers may have difficulties in:
- Getting an erection.
- Have reduced sperm count.
- Volume of ejaculation.
- May experience change in sperm shape.
- Have irregular periods, have problems with lubrication.
- Reach menopause earlier.
- Develop cervical cancer.
- Have fertility problems.
The Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Directorate offers support to those who wish to quit smoking, via telephone and classes.