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Effects of Alcohol on a Woman's Organs

Women and men are built differently, so they are affected differently by the consumption of alcohol. Because women typically weigh less than men, their metabolism operates differently and their organs are affected in differently. Women are at a greater risk for breast cancer, and if drinking during pregnancy, complications with the pregnancy and possible damage to the unborn child can occur as well.

  1. Alcohol and Water, Pound for Pound

    • Because alcohol passes through the blood stream and is diluted with the amount of water in the human body, a woman's internal organs are exposed to more alcohol more quickly than a man's. Pound for pound there is more water in a man's body to dilute the alcohol, because a man's body is typically bigger and contains more water overall. The exposure of alcohol to a woman's brain, liver, kidney's and glands is more intense and the damage potentially more severe than it is for a man. Typically, women develop more serious alcohol-related diseases than men.

    Liver

    • Liver disease in the form of hepatitis and death due to liver disease, or cirrhosis, is more common among women than men. The sensitivity of this organ and the inability to process an overabundance of alcohol can lead to this serious condition in women who drink above the recommended two drinks per day allowance.

    Brain Damage

    • Studies show that almost all people who abuse alcohol are at an increased risk for brain damage. Shrinkage of the brain, loss of brain cells, memory loss and even dementia can and does occur with frequent consumption of alcohol. Again, these issues are more pronounced and happen more frequently and quickly in women who abuse alcohol than in men.

    Cancer

    • Especially for women who drink and smoke, cancer is a potential danger. Various kinds of cancer have been linked to heavy drinking in women, including breast cancer and cancer of the head and neck, and digestive tract.

    Cardiovascular Disease

    • Heart disease is strongly connected to heavy drinking in both men and women. Even though the risks seem to be about equal for this particular affliction, women may suffer from other alcohol-related conditions as well, making this an area of special concern.

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