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Alcohol
in the Mix
Alcohol
and Sex
Because alcohol impairs judgement and motor skills, it is very difficult
to practice smart sex when you have been drinking. In fact, alcohol
is a major barrier to practicing smart sex. Even if you have the presence
of mind to use a condom, you'll be much less likely to use it correctly
and therefore face a high risk of condom failure.
Alcohol is often a contributing factor in sexual assault - especially
acquaintance sexual assault. When drinking, your chances of being
sexually assaulted may be unintentionally increased. As alcohol dulls
your senses and judgement you may miss or ignore danger signals and
not trust your intuition. A study of college undergraduates showed
that both male and female students perceive women who drink alcohol
as being sexually available. A perpetrator may even buy a person drinks
to make them an easier victim.
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Drinking
may also increase the risk of committing sexual assault. Drinking
makes some people become less inhibited and more aggressive, missing
signals to stop sexual advances. Some people believe - wrongly - that
they are not accountable for their actions when they are drunk. Intoxication
is not a defense for rape or engaging in violent and dangerous activity;
legally, you will be held responsible for your actions.The Criminal
Code of Canada states that having sex with a person who is passed
out or too impaired to give voluntary consent is sexual assault.
It is reported that 80% of all sexual assaults and regrettable sexual
encounters, were preceded by drinking. This reckless behaviour also
increases the risk of unwanted pregnancy and the spread of STD's and
AIDS. |
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