Ricerc@Sapienza

Objectives: Chemsex is referred to illicit drugs use (GHB/GBL, methamphetamine, and mephedrone) to enhance the sexual activity in Men who
have Sex with Men (MSM). Most studies focused on the health risks
associated to chemsex, while less attention was paid on the effects on sexual
response and motivations to engage in this behavior. The current study aims
to investigate how drugs used in chemsex might affect the sexual activity and
which are the motivations encouraging men to use them.
Methods: 20 MSM involved in chemsex activities (mean age ¼ 38.6±12.4)
were assessed with an ad hoc semi-structured interview between February
and July 2019 exploring sexuality in chemsex. Interviews transcripts were
thematically analyzed. Inclusion criteria were being cisgender MSM and
having at least a chemsex experience in the last year.
Results: Participants showed significant individual differences in the
effects of chemsex drugs on sexuality. The most common effects
were an increase in sexual desire and subjective arousal, usually
associated with a higher disinhibition and the presence of erectile
difficulties. Some men reported a significant extension of the sexual
experience (till 24-48 hours), with consequent delais and difficulties
in reaching orgasms. Many participants highlighted an intensified
perception of intimacy during chemsex. Regarding feelings and motivations, the increase in arousal and pleasure are the most frequent
factors reported, followed by the possibility to lose controls and
being considered as part of an intimate group/community. Some
men reported to be motivated by their partners and friends and to
use chemsex drugs as palliative for negative mental states and sexual/
identity problems.
Conclusions: Effects on sexuality and motivations for engaging in chemsex
are peculiar factors to better understand this complex and multifactorial
phenomena. Despite the methodological limitations, results highlighted
some key factors that should be considered for harm reduction-based programs and integrated treatment for problematic chemsex.