What is chemsex?

Chemsex, a term that has garnered increasing attention within public health discussions, refers to the practice of using drugs specifically to enhance sexual activity or make it easier. It is particularly observed among certain populations, primarily gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM).

The term itself is a mix of “chemical” and “sex”.

The origins of chemsex can be traced back to specific subcultures within the gay community, where it has been reported to serve as a mechanism to cope with various psychological and social pressures, including stigma, discrimination, and the internalisation of negative sexual identities.

However, the practice has raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals due to its association with a range of physical and mental health risks. These include an increased likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex, thereby elevating the risk of transmitting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as the potential for addiction and other drug-related harms.

The appeal of chemsex lies in its perceived ability to enhance sexual experience and intimacy, often cited by participants as a key reason for engaging in it. It is also suggested that the use of these drugs in a sexual context can help alleviate feelings of insecurity and provide an escape from the realities of everyday life.

Despite these perceived benefits, the dark side of chemsex cannot be overlooked. The practice has been linked to serious health consequences, including drug toxicity, mental health issues such as depression and psychosis, and increased vulnerability to sexual assault and exploitation. Also, the compulsive nature of chemsex sessions, which can last for several days, poses significant risks to an individual’s physical and emotional well-being, straining relationships and impacting broader social and professional responsibilities.

What drugs are commonly used within Chemsex practises?

The most commonly used drugs in chemsex practices include:

1. Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth, Tina): This central nervous system stimulant is known for its ability to increase alertness, concentration, energy, and in some cases, induce euphoria, enhance self-esteem, and increase libido.

However, it’s also associated with serious health risks, including addiction, brain damage, and an increased risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to risky sexual behaviours.

2. Mephedrone (4-MMC, Meow Meow): Often referred to as one of the “new psychoactive substances” (NPS), mephedrone is a synthetic stimulant.

It is known for its effects similar to those of MDMA, amphetamines, and cocaine, including, euphoria, increased talkativeness, and sexual arousal. Mephedrone use has been linked to compulsive use patterns and significant negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular problems and mental health issues.

3. Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL): These closely related drugs are central nervous system depressants that can produce euphoria, increase libido, and lower inhibitions at low doses. However, they have a narrow therapeutic index, meaning there’s a small margin between a dose that produces the desired effects and a dose that could be potentially life-threatening, leading to overdose risks, including unconsciousness, coma, and death.

4. Ketamine: Ketamine is used medically for anaesthesia but also recreationally for its hallucinogenic and dissociative effects.

In the context of chemsex, it may be used for its ability to induce a sense of detachment from the self and the environment, which some users find enhances their sexual experiences. However, ketamine use can lead to serious bladder problems, cognitive deficits, and psychological dependence.

Social and cultural aspects

Its participants often see Chemsex as a form of resistance against mainstream norms and a way to create a sense of belonging. This sense of community can be particularly appealing to individuals who feel isolated or stigmatised by their sexual orientation or drug use.

Chemsex gatherings offer a space where participants can explore their sexuality freely, away from societal judgement, creating a subculture that values openness, experimentation, and shared experience.

However, the practice of chemsex is also a reflection of deeper social and psychological challenges faced by participants.

For some, chemsex serves as a coping mechanism to deal with these challenges, offering temporary relief from feelings of shame, loneliness, or disconnection. It can also be a way to intensify sexual experiences and connections in a world where such opportunities might be limited by external judgement or self-censorship.

The cultural significance of chemsex is also tied to the evolution of drug use within queer communities. Historically, drugs have played a role in facilitating social and sexual interactions in many cultures, but within the context of chemsex, they acquire specific meanings and purposes.

Public and medical discourse often condemns chemsex, focusing on its risks and negative consequences. While these concerns are valid, such framing can overlook the agency of individuals and the potential for chemsex to fulfil genuine social and emotional needs. It also risks reinforcing the stigma faced by participants, potentially alienating them from seeking help or engaging with health services.

Multiple partners and the risk

One of the main risks linked to chemsex and multiple sexual partnerships is the increased likelihood of engaging in unprotected sex. The drugs commonly used in chemsex scenarios can lead to heightened sexual arousal and lowered inhibitions, which may result in participants being more likely to forgo condoms or other protective measures.

This behaviour raises the chances of spreading or contracting HIV and STIs. Studies have shown that individuals engaging in chemsex are at a higher risk of HIV infection due to these factors. The practice of sharing injecting equipment, which can occur in some chemsex contexts, further exacerbates this risk by providing a direct transmission route for blood-borne viruses.

Moreover, the nature of chemsex – often involving prolonged sessions with multiple partners – increases the exposure to potential infections. Each additional sexual encounter represents another opportunity for disease transmission, making the spread of infections more likely among this population.

An overview of psychological and physical risks of chemsex

To conclude, here is a brief overview of the risks that you open yourself up to by participating in chemsex use:

Physical symptoms and risks:

• Dependence: Users may develop physical dependence on drugs used in chemsex, which could affect their ability to enjoy intimate relationships without the substance.
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs): There is an increased risk of contracting STDs, including HIV and Hepatitis C, due to the likelihood of engaging in unprotected sexual activities.
• Cardiovascular risks: Drugs like mephedrone can increase heart rate, elevating the risk of heart attacks.
• Neurological risks: Use of GHB/GBL, even in small quantities, can lead to serious side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and vision changes. Higher doses can result in unconsciousness or blackouts.

Psychological symptoms and risks:

• Chemsex parties often involve risky sexual behaviours that can lead to regret and psychological distress.
• Loss of inhibitions and increased risk-taking behaviours are common due to the chemical intoxication from drugs like crystal meth.
• Anxiety and agitation: Drugs such as mephedrone can cause users to feel agitated and anxious, with these feelings potentially intensifying when combined with other substances.
• Psychosis and mental health issues: Methamphetamine use has the potential to lead to severe psychosis and mental health issues, exacerbating the risk of dependency.

If you find you are suffering from the after-effects of chemsex participation, or you are thinking about using chemsex for any reason, don’t hesitate to reach out to UKAT for support or advice.