Chemsex, also known as "chemical sex", is a practice that involves the consumption of psychoactive substances before or during sexual activities. This trend, which has been increasing in recent years, poses serious implications for the mental and physical health of those who participate in it. It is important to understand what type of drugs are most frequently used in this context, as well as their associated effects and risks.
Stimulants such as methamphetamine
One of the drugs most commonly associated with chemsex is methamphetamine. This powerful stimulant of the central nervous system produces euphoric effects, increased energy and libido. Methamphetamine users may feel more disinhibited and have greater sexual resistance, leading them to engage in prolonged bouts of sexual activity.
Using methamphetamine in the context of chemsex can have serious health consequences. . The drug is highly addictive and excessive consumption can cause episodes of psychosis, paranoia and aggression. Additionally, the combined use of methamphetamine and unprotected sex increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV.
GBL and GHB: sedatives with seductive effects
Other popular drugs in chemsex are GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) and GHB (gamma hydroxybutyric acid), substances that act as depressants of the central nervous system with sedative properties and disinhibitory effects. These drugs are known for their ability to reduce anxiety, increase sociability, and improve the perception of tactile sensations during sex.
However, GBL and GHB are fast-acting substances, which makes them especially dangerous when combined with alcohol or other drugs, since they can cause an abrupt drop in the level of consciousness, difficulties remembering what happened and even cause a coma. Additionally, excessive consumption of GBL and GHB can lead to dependence and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Ecstasy and MDMA: the love drug in chemsex
Ecstasy and MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) are drugs that have become popular in recreational and festive contexts, including chemsex. These substances produce stimulating and empathic effects, increasing the feeling of emotional connection and libido, making them attractive to those seeking to intensify the sexual experience.
Despite their reputation as "love drugs\\\\ ", ecstasy and MDMA are not without risks in the context of chemsex. Ecstasy use can cause dehydration, hyperthermia, cardiac arrhythmias and physical exhaustion, especially if combined with long sessions of non-stop sexual activity. In addition, frequent use of MDMA can cause neurological damage and long-term mood disorders.
Polyconsumption and dangerous combinations
One of the main risks associated with chemsex is polyconsumption. of drugs, that is, the combination of several psychoactive substances during the same session. This practice can enhance the effects of each individual drug and generate unpredictable interactions that significantly increase the health risks of those who participate in chemsex.
Poly drug use in the context of chemsex can give rise to situations of overdose, severe poisoning, temporary psychotic disorders and impulsive or violent behavior. Furthermore, the combination of substances with opposite effects, such as stimulants and sedatives, can produce adverse effects on the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system, endangering the lives of those who participate in these practices.
Prevention and Addressing problematic drug use in chemsex
Given the growing popularity of chemsex and the risks associated with drug use in this context, it is essential to promote prevention strategies and address problematic substance use. Some key recommendations include:
Education and awareness:
It is important that the general population, as well as health professionals and public policy makers, are informed about the risks. of chemsex and the drugs most commonly associated with this practice. Education in sexual health and harm reduction can contribute to greater awareness of risks and the prevention of risk situations.
Access to health services:
It is crucial that People who participate in chemsex have access to mental and sexual health services that offer information, support and specialized treatment in addressing drug use and risky sexual practices. Addiction care centers and clinics specialized in sexual health can play a fundamental role in the detection and early intervention in cases of problematic drug use in the context of chemsex.
Harm reduction:
Harm reduction strategies in the context of chemsex may include the provision of sterile materials for safe sexual practice, the promotion of the use of condoms and lubricants, the dissemination of information about interactions between drugs and promoting safer and more consensual sexual practices. These measures can help minimize the risks associated with chemsex and protect the health of those who participate in these practices.
Conclusions
In conclusion, chemsex is a practice in which consumption Drugs play a central role, enhancing the intensity and duration of sexual experiences. However, the drugs used in chemsex carry significant risks for the mental and physical health of those who consume them, especially when combined with risky sexual practices.
It is essential to promote prevention, awareness and approach strategies. of problematic drug use in the context of chemsex, guaranteeing access to adequate health services and promoting safe and consensual sexual practices. Only through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach will it be possible to minimize the risks associated with drug use in the context of chemsex and protect the health and well-being of those who participate in these practices.