Chemsex has been on the radar of public health authorities in the UK and around the world for several years.
While chemsex itself is nothing new, more modern variations of the practice have led to certain behaviors that can endanger participants.
But what are these behaviors and why should you know about chemsex?
Read on to find out.
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What is Chemsex?
Chemsex is a relatively new term that describes a fairly old practice: sex while taking drugs. However, chemsex specifically describes sexual activity between men who have sex in a group sex setting with men who use certain drugs. Most of the time, these men have not had sex until they take these medications. “Chemsex” is sometimes referred to as “Party and Play” (PnP). Medically it is called “sexualized drug use” because the activity can be very addictive.
The drugs used in chemsex, such as crystallized methamphetamine and mephedrone, are intended to facilitate and enhance sexual activities that last several hours or sometimes days and involve multiple sexual partners. The medications used are often physiological stimulants that increase heart rate and blood pressure, induce euphoria and sexual arousal, and often reduce inhibitions. These medications are most commonly snorted or smoked, but they can also be injected.
People who engage in chemsex report They have a more intense sexual experience because the medication allows them to overcome inhibitions such as lack of confidence and self-esteem, homophobia, stigmatization of their HIV status, increased stamina and desire, and sustained arousal.
The aftereffects of chemsex can also be quite harsh. Undesirable Side effects These can include restlessness, anxiety, paranoia, aggression and even bouts of psychosis. Chemsex users often report losing entire days or not sleeping or eating for long periods of time, which can negatively impact their overall health.
What are sexually transmitted diseases?
Sexually transmitted diseases are infections that most people acquire through sexual activity. This includes vaginal sex, anal sex, oral sex and sharing sex toys.
The vast majority of sexually transmitted diseases are transmitted through unprotected sex. Without barrier contraception, pathogens can easily be transmitted from one person to another during sexual intercourse.
You can also become infected with sexually transmitted diseases in other ways, such as through foreplay and sharing needles when injecting drugs.
How are they related?
Chemsex is considered an important potential risk factor for sexually transmitted diseases.
The drugs used in chemsex are: linked to a higher number of sexual partners and higher levels of risky sexual behavior. This alone is the main explanation for the astonishingly high number of cases of gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis and mycoplasma that we see in men during chemsex.
Additionally, chemsex practices have also been linked to physical trauma during sexual activity, providing further opportunities for sexually transmitted disease transmission. We are seeing more “super chlamydia” (Lymphogranuloma venereum) in this setting. These risks may be increased if the needles used to inject these medications are shared. Increasing the risk of transmitting certain infections such as HIV and hepatitis C.
In addition, coexisting STIs may facilitate the acquisition of other STIs, including HIV. With sexually transmitted diseases like Herpes, syphilis, Chlamydia, gonorrheaAnd Mycoplasmas can increase a person’s susceptibility to HIV infection.
How can I avoid sexually transmitted diseases?
While using drugs during sex does not directly cause someone to contract a sexually transmitted disease, chemsex typically occurs in a context and amid social and sexual dynamics that make the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases extremely likely.
It is important to remember that all sexual activity carries some risk. The best way to protect yourself and your sexual health is to consistently use barrier contraception methods such as condoms, female condoms, and dental dams.
The next best thing is to get tested regularly for sexually transmitted diseases when you are sexually active, especially after starting a new sexual relationship with a new partner or partners.
If you enjoy chemsex, it’s always best to contact your healthcare providers directly and get tested for STDs more often than other people. This way you can get treatment and help reduce the high number of sexually transmitted diseases that occur during chemsex.
If you suspect you have a chemsex addiction, your doctor may arrange to consult a team of specialists who can help you reduce or stop your activity if you need to.
Final thoughts
If you have concerns about your sexual health, you can always become more informed by getting tested.
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This article was published on January 22, 2025 by Dr. Steve Chapman medically reviewed.
