Advice and resources : Chemsex: staying safe

What is chemsex?

Chemsex is when you use specific drugs before or during sexual activity.

The drugs are used to make sexual activity more enjoyable or last longer. Sessions can involve multiple partners and last hours or days. It is often linked to the LGBTQ+ community, but it can happen in other groups too.

These drugs can have serious health effects, particularly when used frequently or combined with other drugs.

Common chemsex drugs:

• crystal meth (methamphetamine) — a strong stimulant that increases energy and confidence but can harm your heart and mind
• mephedrone ('meph'/'miaow') — a stimulant that can make you excited and increase risk-taking
• GHB/GBL — a drug that slows you down and can feel intense, but higher amounts or mixing with alcohol can make you pass out

Risks

• Not using condoms or not knowing a partner’s HIV status can cause HIV and other STIs.
• Sharing needles can spread hepatitis C and other infections.
• Long sessions or lack of lubrication can cause cuts, swelling, or tears in the genitals, which makes infections more likely.
• You can overdose, get dehydrated, or have very poor sleep.
• Repeated use can lead to addiction.
• After the drugs wear off you may feel anxious, paranoid, or very low (a comedown).
• You may do things you regret because drugs affect your judgement.

Staying safe — harm reduction tips

• Know your dose. Wait before taking more.
• Don’t mix drugs with alcohol. Mixing increases the chance of blackouts.
• Use condoms and consider PrEP to reduce HIV risk.
• Never share needles or injecting equipment.
• Drink water, rest regularly, and take breaks during sessions.
• Tell a friend where you are and who you are with, if possible.
• Seek help if you feel out of control or worried about your drug use.
• If you think you were exposed to HIV, start emergency treatment (PEP) within 72 hours. Call your local sexual health clinic or NHS 111.

• Learn more about PrEP and PEP

Drug and alcohol support groups

You can turn to support groups for more information about drug and alcohol addiction support.

UK Addiction Treatment Centres offer a wide range of support for those struggling with addiction. Visit their website to find a support group near you and take the first step toward recovery.

• Find a support group

Slough Treatment, Advice and Recovery Team (START) – Turning Point

START is Slough’s primary NHS commissioned drug and alcohol service, operated by Turning Point.

They offer free, confidential support for individuals dealing with substance misuse. Services include harm reduction, detox support, counselling, and recovery planning.

• Find out more on the Turning Point website
• Drinking less alcohol - Slough Borough Council

Private rehabilitation centres

Cassiobury Court (Berkshire)

Cassiobury Court offers private drug and alcohol rehabilitation services at their 21-bedroom residential centre.

Their programmes include medically assisted detoxification, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and holistic therapies.

• Find out more about Cassiobury Court

Liberty House Clinic (Luton)

Liberty House Clinic provides detoxification and rehabilitation services under professional supervision.

They offer long-term care and individualized attention, making it a viable option for those seeking comprehensive treatment.

• Find out more about Liberty House Clinic

Primrose Lodge (Guildford)

Residential rehabilitation in a comfortable setting. Facilities include en-suite bedrooms, on-site gyms, and tailored therapy programmes. They also provide one year of aftercare support.

• Find out more about Primrose Lodge

Further information

The Terence Higgins Trust (THT) has developed a website where you can learn more about the risks from chemsex and find support.

• Visit the THT Chemsex website: Visit the THT Chemsex website