Preparing for safer chemsex

Check in with yourself

If you are using chemsex to cope with feelings of anxiety or to escape, this may be a sign you need to give chemsex a miss this time. Chemsex may offer relief, but it can make things worse in the long run.

Self-care such as getting some rest, exercise, seeing a friend, or going for a walk could be a better alternative.

Get some nourishment

Eat well before you start. A meal including rice, pasta, potatoes or noodles will give you slow-release energy. You might not feel like cooking afterwards so have food which is easy to prepare. Having some high energy drinks and snacks with you during a session will also help keep your energy levels up. Consider taking some multivitamins.

Pack a ‘shag bag’

Before heading out it’s a good idea to prepare a ‘shag bag’ with all your essentials. Things to include are:

• PrEP or HIV meds (include some extra doses, just in case)
• Condoms and lube
• Douche bulb
• Syringes and droppers (for dosing G)
• Clean needles (and other injecting equipment)
• Latex gloves (for fisting)
• Snacks
• Toothbrush, mouthwash and toothpaste
• Bottle of water or energy drink
• Phone charger
• Anti-bacterial wipes and hand sanitiser
• Chewing gum
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Sunglasses (for leaving in daylight)
• Some clean clothes to wear at end of session

Set yourself an end time

It’s easy to lose track of time and not want to stop. Extending a session too much can result in missing something important or having an awful comedown. Try the following to avoid this:

• Set an end time before you start and agree with the other people involved.
• Tell a trusted friend, who can check in with you.
• Don’t take out more money for drugs.
• Leave with a friend.
• Avoid going on hook-up apps on the way home.
• Make plans for the day after, like meeting a friend you don’t want to let down.