UK
It's Time To Embrace Sober Sex
Pass the mocktail. Many of us have been led to believe that alcohol is a prerequisite for having a good time in the bedroom. Yes, we’re frankly bombarded with messages in movies, TV shows, and even from friends that a few drinks are necessary to loosen up and have a great time between the sheets. However, with 22% of UK adults taking part in Dry January 2025*, now is the perfect time to explore pleasure without a pinot grigio (or two). Whether you’re cutting out alcohol for the foreseeable, or just want to see what the fuss is all about when it comes to sober sex, read on…
Good Head
One of the major benefits of having sober sex is that you are fully present in the moment. When you're not under the influence of alcohol, you're more able to tune in to your partner's needs and desires with complete clarity. Rather than fighting a fuzzy head or letting it all go by in a blur, you can be more intentional with your caresses, focus on all the sensations and truly connect with your partner on a deeper, more intimate level. Trust us, this can lead to a more intimate and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.
No Regrets
Another perk of sober sex is that you're less likely to make regrettable decisions. How many times have you woken up after a night of drinking and realized that you may have done something you wouldn't have done in a sober state? Texting exes, going home with someone you maybe would think twice about or risky unprotected sex are all possibilities when under the influence. By choosing to have sex without alcohol, you can ensure that you are making decisions that are truly in line with your values and desires.
Love Your Libido
Having sober sex can actually improve your physical performance in the bedroom. Despite making it easier to chat the ear of that Hinge hottie in the pub, or approach the gorgeous DJ on a girls’ night out, alcohol is actually a depressant that can impair your motor skills and coordination, making it harder to perform at your best. By abstaining from alcohol, you may find that you have more stamina and energy to fully enjoy the experience. Studies show that drinking large amounts of alcohol can also negatively impact female libido, diminishing sexual stimulation, affecting vaginal lubrication and making it harder to reach orgasm. If you’re a woman who struggles with low libido, you might want to try swapping cocktails, wine or beer for mocktails.
We Need To Talk
Not to mention, sober sex can also lead to better communication with your partner/s. Alcohol can sometimes cloud our judgement and inhibit our ability to effectively communicate with one another in the bedroom. When you're sober, you're more likely to have open and honest conversations about your desires, boundaries, and needs, which can lead to a more satisfying and fulfilling sexual experience for both partners. Rather than getting sozzled and springing a new sexual fantasy on them in the heat of the moment, have a sober chat - you might just be surprised!
Mind Your Health
Lastly, choosing to have sober sex can have positive effects on your overall health and well-being. Beyond a negative impact on your libido and sexual performance, alcohol can take its toll on your emotional and physical well-being. It’s especially important for women to moderate alcohol consumption. Research shows that women have a higher risk of developing alcohol-related liver disease compared to men, even when they consume less alcohol. For those who do, it’s more likely to progress more quickly and potentially into liver cancer.
Not-So Dry January
Better decision making, improved sexual performance and enhanced communication? Count us in. So, why not give sober sex a try this Dry January and see the benefits for yourself? Your body and your partner will thank you for it - and you might just find yourself regularly switching the champagne for no or low ABV options on date night. Cheers!
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