Advice and resources : Chemsex: staying safe

What is chemsex?

Chemsex refers to using specific drugs often crystal methamphetamine (meth), mephedrone, and GHB/GBL to enhance or prolong sexual activity, usually with multiple partners.

It can involve long sessions, often lasting hours or days, and is most associated within the LGBTQ+ community, although it can occur in other groups as well.

These drugs can have serious health effects, particularly when used frequently or in combination. Below are the common chemsex drugs:

• crystal meth (methamphetamine): A stimulant that can increase energy, confidence, and sex drive.
• mephedrone ("meph" or "miaow"): A stimulant similar to amphetamines.
• GHB/GBL: A sedative that can heighten sensations but also cause blackouts or unconsciousness, especially in high doses or when mixed with alcohol.

You can learn about the different type of risks to your physical and mental health by visiting THT ChemSex.

• Find out more about chemsex

Risks

Chemsex carries a range of risks that can affect your physical and mental health:

Physical health risk

Using drugs during sex can affect your judgment, making it harder to use condoms or know your partner’s HIV status, which increases the risk of HIV and other STIs.

If you inject drugs, using clean needles is vital. Sharing needles, especially when impaired, can spread hepatitis C and other infections.

Extended sexual activity without enough lubrication or breaks can cause friction injuries like swelling or small tears in the genital area. These microtears weaken the skin’s defences, making it easier for infections such as HIV and other STIs to enter the body.

There’s also a risk of overdose, dehydration, poor sleep, and addiction over time.

Mental health risk

Using drugs can affect your judgement, making it harder to stay in control during sexual activity. You might do things you wouldn’t normally choose if you weren’t under the influence, which can lead to feelings of regret or sadness afterward. When the effects wear off (known as the comedown) it’s also common to feel anxious, paranoid, or emotionally low.

Harm reduction tips

If you choose to engage in chemsex, it's important to take steps to protect your health and safety. Always know your dose, especially with GHB and wait before taking more to avoid overdose.

Mixing drugs or alcohol, particularly with GHB, can be dangerous and increase the risk of blackouts.

Always use condoms and/or PrEP to lower the chance of HIV and other STIs, and never share needles or injecting equipment.

Stay hydrated, take regular breaks to rest, and let someone you trust know where you are and what you're doing. These precautions can help reduce harm and keep you safer.

Drug and alcohol support groups

You can turn to support groups across the region 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.

START is known for its compassionate, non-judgmental approach and has been rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

• 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