Kenneth Glad
What happens before sex can shape the experience more than many realise.
A US doctor is urging people to pay closer attention to a few everyday habits that may quietly interfere with comfort and performance.
The advice comes from Dr Jen Caudle, whose comments were reported by LadBible after she shared guidance in a video on Instagram, where she frequently discusses health topics.
One of the most common issues, Caudle suggests, is alcohol consumption. While often used to relax, its effects on the body can work against sexual performance if overdone.
“I would not overdo it with the alcohol,” she said.
Medical research has long linked higher alcohol intake to reduced nervous system activity, which can dull physical responses and make arousal or performance more difficult.
In men, this can include trouble maintaining an erection, while in general it may lower sensitivity and coordination.
Rather than enhancing the moment, excess drinking can end up limiting it.
Less obvious effects
Beyond alcohol, Caudle also pointed to medications that people may not associate with intimacy.
In her video, she noted that antihistamines, commonly used for allergies, can have drying effects on the body.
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She explained that these drugs may reduce natural lubrication, which plays an important role in comfort during sex.
Without it, friction can increase and the experience may become uncomfortable.
This is linked to how antihistamines work, as they suppress certain bodily responses, including fluid production in areas where moisture is normally present.
Timing and comfort
Grooming habits can also make a difference. Shaving immediately before sex, particularly in sensitive areas, may lead to irritation.
Freshly shaved skin is more prone to small abrasions or sensitivity, which can be aggravated by friction.
Caudle advised allowing some time between shaving and intimacy to let the skin settle.
Her overall message points to a simple idea: small adjustments in timing and moderation can help avoid unnecessary discomfort and improve the experience.
Sources: LadBible, Instagram (Dr Jen Caudle)
