Staying Safer when engaging in Chemsex

What is Chemsex?  

‘Chemsex’ is the term used to describe sexual activity, which often involves a group of people, who will be under the influence of one or more specific types of drug. These drugs are called Methamphetamine, Mephedrone, and GHB/GBL. The effects of these drugs can make people feel very happy, relaxed, connected to others, and can lower inhibitions. For these reasons, some people take them to have more intense sex. However, there are always risks associated with any substance use so we have put together some tips to help you stay safer if you choose to engage in Chemsex. 

Taking Care of Yourself: 

If you are going to take part in Chemsex it is important to prepare by taking steps to keep you and others as safe as possible. The advice below contains a number of ways to look after your wellbeing and reduce any associated risks.

Take your medication:  

If you take medications that needs to be taken every day or at certain times, be sure to bring them with you.  Set an alarm on your mobile as a reminder to take your medication.  

Drink water: 

It’s important to drink water regularly to stay hydrated. Take small sips regularly and do not exceed more than one pint per hour. 

Get rest: 

Take regular breaks outside the sex setting and relax as stimulant drugs often delay tiredness and exhaustion. If you can’t sleep, find a quiet, dark space to help you relax better. 

Eat: 

Even if you’re not hungry, try to eat small amounts regularly. 

Mixing drugs: 

Be wary that you may not know exactly what you are getting, and the purity and potency of drugs can vary.  Mixing drugs can make it more difficult to know your limits and stay in control, which can increase risk and make it harder for you to stay safe. 

Set boundaries: 

Explain your sexual boundaries so that all involved know what you are willing to engage in and what risks are acceptable to you.  Everyone should be given this opportunity and the conversation it should take place while sober before you begin. 

Administer your own drugs: 

You should not let anyone prepare your dose as we all have different tolerances (how much our bodies can handle before negative or unwanted effects take over) and only you can judge yours.  

Go with someone: 

Do you know someone else who will be there?   Make plans to travel to and from with them. You may not feel great afterwards and having someone to travel with could be comforting.  If not, let someone know where you plan to be and update them if the plan changes. 

Get tested: 

Chemsex can make you more likely to engage in risk-taking sexual behaviours so you should routinely get tested to help prevent the spread of STI’s. 

If someone becomes ill: 

You should always call 999 if you or someone else becomes ill, incoherent or you think they are having an overdose.  Don’t be scared that you’ll get in trouble as you will be calling for an ambulance. 

CONSENT:  

If you or another involved are unable to consent to sex, you must stop.  If you or someone else involved has fallen asleep, passed out or are too intoxicated to agree to sex then consent cannot be established.  Having sex with someone without their consent is a criminal offence. If you are unable to be sure about someone’s ability to consent – you must stop immediately. 

Reducing Risk and Harm:  

Some people find that stopping altogether is the only way to completely avoid the dangers associated with Chemsex.  If this is not an option, other ways to lower associated risk include: 

  • Dissolving drugs in water or wrap them in paper before swallowing. 
  • Items used for snorting drugs should never be shared (straws/notes).
  • Avoid mixing drugs. 
  • If you’re using a syringe to take drugs via the anus, dilute the solution with fresh, clean water and use a clean syringe without a needle. 
  • Try to avoid injecting drugs as this can dramatically increase the intensity of effect and lead to an overdose however, if you do never share or reuse needles. 
  • Never let anyone else inject you. 
  • Wait 2 hours between doses (especially GHB/GBL) to see how it is affecting you. 
  • Always use condoms/femidoms/barrier protection. 

If you would like support in stopping or reducing your use of drugs or other substances, or in engaging in Chemsex you can contact CGL for support. You can also see our other resources on Harm Reduction and Drug Use, and Sexual Health.

Click here for inclusive LGBTQ+ sexual health services

Information on drug abuse and harm reduction

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