Evidenced by research, smoking can indeed make sexual arousal decrease

Cigarettes have many negative effects on the body. In fact, many scientific facts show that smoking can actually make sexual arousal decrease. How did it happen?

Smoking can make sexual arousal decrease

Panayiotis M. Zavos, Ph.D., director of the Andrology Institute of America and professor of reproductive physiology and andrology at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, states that smoking has a direct negative effect on male sexuality.

From the results of his research on his patients, namely couples who have fertility problems, smoking actually makes male sexual desire and satisfaction decrease. In fact, Zavos stated this condition applies to young men in their 20s to 30s.

From the results of his small study, it was found that smokers have sex less than six times a month. Meanwhile, men who do not smoke actually have sex almost twice as often as smokers.

Meanwhile, in terms of the level of satisfaction, it is known that couples who do not smoke at all have an average sex satisfaction rate of around 8.7. Meanwhile, the male partner who smoked, the level of sexual satisfaction was only 5.2. With that, Zavos concluded that sexual satisfaction will increase if a person stops smoking.

Many experts agree that smoking can damage sexual performance. A urologist from the United States and author of The Sexual Male, dr. Richard Milsten, stated that smoking can cause damage to smooth muscle in the penis.

Not only that, smoking also causes narrowing of the arteries which can block blood flow to the penis. In fact, the penis requires adequate blood flow when erect. As a result, this condition can cause permanent problems in the penis such as erectile dysfunction.

In addition, quoted from the Medical Daily, a 2006 study published in BJU International found that most men who experience erectile dysfunction are ex-smokers. The study also showed that male smokers took more time to become aroused than men who did not smoke.

The existence of disturbances in the sexual organs is what ultimately makes sexual arousal decrease. Therefore, dr. Richard Milsten stated that quitting smoking is the right step to get a better health and sex life.

Effective tips for quitting smoking

Have a strong desire

Before taking concrete steps, the main provision for quitting smoking is a strong intention and desire. Approximately, what makes you want to quit smoking, that's what will hold you back from smoking cigarettes anymore.

Find something else to do

If during this time you have certain times to smoke, start now to change it with other activities. When you get used to smoking after eating, for example, then you can replace it by going for a walk or chewing gum.

Distract yourself

The American Lungs Association advises you to divert your attention whenever the urge to smoke comes. You can call friends, drink water, get some fresh air, play games on mobile, and in other ways. It is hard to resist but you can.

Get some exercise

Exercise helps reduce stress. When exercising, the body is triggered to release endorphins or happy hormones. Exercise also reduces the levels of the hormone cortisol (stress hormone) in the body. You can do a variety of sports you like from walking, swimming, or jogging.