Safe Sex and Substance Use

Understanding the impact of substances on sexual health

Effects on sex drive and performance

Different substances can have varying effects on sexual drive and performance. Here’s how some of them impact sexual health:

• Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA): these can increase sex drive and delay ejaculation. They may also lead to risky sexual behavior due to heightened arousal and reduced judgment.
• Depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines): mall amounts can lower your inhibitions and impact your ability to consent, higher doses often reduce sexual performance and libido.
• Opioids (e.g., heroin, morphine): these typically decrease libido and can make it difficult to orgasm.
• Cannabis: effects can vary; some people report increased sexual pleasure, while others may experience a decrease in libido.
• Hallucinogens: these can alter perception and mood, and can lead to more intense touch sensations, but also unpredictable sexual behavior.

Consent and substance use

• Informed consent: this means knowing fully what you are agreeing to before saying yes. Consent must be active, ongoing, enthusiastic, and not given under pressure or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Communication: it’s really important you have clear communication with sexual partners about boundaries and intentions is crucial, especially when substances are involved. It is ideal to discuss what you are and are not ok with doing before using substances.

Harm minimisation strategies

Use protection

• Always use condoms: it doesn't matter which substance you use, condoms are essential to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancies.
• Dental dams for oral sex: these protect against STIs when performing oral sex.

Know your status

• Regular STI testing: regular screenings for STIs and HIV are crucial, especially if you have multiple partners.
• Discuss health status: share your STI status with your partners before you engage in sexual activity.

Plan ahead

• Carry protection: always have condoms or other protective barriers with you.
• Avoid mixing substances: mixing substances can further impair your ability to make safe decisions.

Set clear boundaries

• Pre-define your boundaries: decide what you are comfortable with before using substances.
• Communicate boundaries: make sure your partners are aware of your boundaries and respect them. This could mean your boundaries around sexual activity, as well as what level of substance use you are comfortable with.

Manage substance use

• Moderate use: reducing the amount of substance use can help you maintain clearer judgment.
• Avoid using with people you don’t know well: use substances in the company of trusted people who can help maintain a safe environment. Mixing sex and substances with people you’ve just met could increase risk.

Support and resources

• Seek support: If you struggle with substance use, seek support from services like counseling or support groups.
• Educational resources: familiarise yourself with resources on safe sex and substance use.

Aftercare

Substance use can lead to physical and emotional vulnerability. After you’ve had sex, have an aftercare plan, which might include hydration, rest, and emotional check-ins.

Safe spaces

Choose safe, secure locations for sexual activity to reduce the risk of harm.

Resources and support

• Sexual Health Victoria: resources on sexual health and safer sex practices.
• The Alcohol and Drug Foundation: information on how substances affect health, including sexual health.
• headspace: support for young people with sexual health and substance use issues.
• National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service: confidential information, counselling, and support service.