Crystal Meth

Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine or crystal, is a highly addictive and powerful stimulant drug that affects the central nervous system. It can be smoked, snorted, injected or taken orally, and is usually found in the form of small, clear crystals. Crystal meth can produce a powerful high and is commonly used by some people during sex.

Crystal meth can have immediate and long-term effects on the body and mind. In the short term, it can cause increased energy, reduced appetite, heightened sexual arousal, and a sense of euphoria. The effects may last as long as 12 hours. For these reasons, Crystal Meth is being used more frequently on the chemsex scene. However, these effects are often followed by negative consequences such as insomnia, anxiety, paranoia, aggression, and depression. Crystal meth is illegal and has no accepted medical uses.

Risks

There are many risks associated with using crystal meth, particularly when it comes to sex. Meth use during sex can increase the risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to impaired judgment and lowered inhibitions.

Meth use can also lead to sexual practices such as unprotected anal sex, which can increase the risk of STIs and HIV transmission. In addition, meth use can cause dehydration, which can be especially dangerous during sex.

If you’re under the influence of crystal meth you could be vulnerable to others who may take advantage of you sexually.

You might feel confused, agitated or experience panic attacks which could make you vulnerable in an unfamiliar environment.

Injecting, ‘shooting-up’ or ‘slamming’ crystal meth can lead to inflamed / collapsed veins, track lines, skin infections and infections of the heart which can lead to heart attacks. (See our safer injecting guide)

Sharing needles can heighten the chances of getting or transmitting infectious diseases such as HIV & Hepatitis C.

Increased blood pressure, body temperature and heart rate which could all lead to heart attacks.

Addiction. Once people start using crystal meth they find it difficult to stop.

Withdrawal symptoms such as depression, which can also lead to difficulty in finding pleasure in anything other than using drugs.

“Meth Mouth”, where teeth rapidly decay and fall out.

Drug-related psychosis, which can last for months or years after you’ve stopped using

Ten tips to Reduce the Harms

Here are ten tips to reduce the harms associated with using crystal meth during sex:

  1.  Start low and go slow: Begin with a small dose and wait to see the effects before using more.
  2. Use in a safe place: Find a place where you feel comfortable and secure, away from potential danger or harm.
  3. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-replacing fluids, especially before, during, and after using.
  4. Avoid mixing with other drugs: Mixing crystal meth with other drugs can increase the risk of harm and result in unpredictable effects.
  5. Use clean equipment: If injecting, use new, sterile needles and other equipment to minimise the risk of blood-borne infections.
  6. Be mindful of your environment: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid dangerous situations.
  7. Be mindful of your mental state: Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings and seek help if you experience anxiety, depression, or paranoia.
  8. Practice safe sex: Use condoms and water-based lube to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
  9. Seek help if needed: If you are struggling with crystal meth use, seek help from a healthcare provider, substance abuse treatment program, or support group.
  10. Check out the MPOWER Sex Party First Aid Guide to help in avoiding accidents, overdoses, assaults and death.

Support & Services

If you are worried about your relationship with Crystal Meth, it is important to reach out. There are a number of non-judgemental friendly services who can help.

The Switchboard Ireland

Outhouse, 105 Capel St, Dublin 1.

The Switchboard Ireland is Ireland’s longest running support service for the LGBT+ community. LGBT+ volunteers are available 7 days a week on phone, email and online chat to offer confidential listening, support and information. Thursdays: Substance Abuse, Chems, Narcotics, Alcohol 6:30pm – 9pm.

Phone 01 872 1055

Contact: WhatsApp @ 089 26 74 777

Email: ask@theswitchboard.ie for support & signpost by email

contact@theswitchboard.ie for other questions

MPOWER

The MPOWER team of peer sexual health outreach workers offer information, support and resources relating to HIV, STIs and other sexual health & wellbeing needs. The team is available to speak to you by phone, email, WhatsApp, and Zoom.

Phone 01-8733799 and ask for the MPOWER Team (Mon-Fri 10am – 5pm)

Whatsapp on 086 065 7212 (Davy), 0866002996 (Mark), 0892291869 (Diego)

Email: mpower@hivireland.ie

Website: https://mpower.hivireland.ie

Sexual Health Centre Cork

Sexual Health Centre Cork offer the services of a dedicated Sexual Health Advisor to members of LGBTQIA+ community. Aaron O’Sullivan provides sexual health advice and support in an understanding and warm environment, on a wide range of matters such as healthy relationships, sexuality, sexual dysfunction, gender and sexual identity.

You can make an appointment by sending an email to info@sexualhealthcentre.com, calling the Sexual Health Centre on 021 427 5837 or contacting Aaron directly at aaron@sexualhealthcentre.com

Visit the National Directory of Drugs and Alcohol Services and find a local service to help you.

Drugs helpline: Freefone 1800 459 459

Further information at the Crystal Meth page at drugs.ie

or from the Drugs Helpline: Freefone 1800 459 459

1800459 459

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