Chemsex among men who have sex with men in Germany: motives, consequences and the response of the support system

Abstract

Background In Germany, drug use in sexual settings (i.e. chemsex) among men who have sex with men (MSM) has increasingly been the subject of discussion for considerable time. At the same time, however, little is known about this practice. It is against this background that what is currently known about chemsex among MSM in Germany is discussed. Methods: The present study observations are essentially based on the results of two research projects of a qualitative–explorative nature. In-depth interviews with drug-using MSM (n = 14), as well as qualitative, problem-centred interviews with drug-using MSM (n = 75) and expert interviews (n = 27) were conducted within these research projects. Results: Chemsex is a minority behaviour among MSM in Germany. The reasons for using drugs in sexual settings are manifold. For the most part, the effects of the drugs are used to intensify sexual feelings and to achieve greater intimacy. Men who consider their consumption to be problematic, in particular, report a range of negative consequences, such as sexually transmissible infections. Even though chemsex is a minority behaviour, suitable offers of support are, hence, necessary, especially for these men. However, such offers are not yet available in most German cities. Conclusions: In order to close this gap in provision of support services, tangible practical steps, such as further training of people who work at drug and gay advisory services, are necessary, along with further research into the backgrounds and contexts of chemsex.