Chemsex
Chemsex refers to the use of certain drugs to intensify sexual experiences and reduce inhibitions. Although this can lead to positive experiences, it also involves significant risks. Would you like to change your chemsex use? Discover the support offered by the multidisciplinary expert centre of the Institute of Tropical Medicine.
Last updated: 23 February 2026
What is chemsex?
Chemsex refers to the use of certain psychoactive substances ("chems") before or during sexual contact in order to increase pleasure, reduce inhibitions and enhance sexuality. Initially, these substances can boost energy levels and feelings of connection, which may lead to euphoria. They can also make it possible to have sex for longer periods of time.
However, chemsex can also have a downside. In recent years, a growing number of people have experienced the negative consequences associated with chemsex. Reduced inhibitions and prolonged sexual activity increase the risk of medical complications. In addition, sleep deprivation and substance use can affect mental health, work, relationships and broader social life.
What can you consult us for?
If you feel that something needs to change in the way you experience chemsex, we are here to guide and support you. Together, we explore how your situation and its impact on your life can be improved.
For some, this means stopping chemsex altogether. For others, stopping is not the goal. We always start from your personal goals and look for realistic steps to help you achieve them.
Within our clinic, we also offer other forms of support, including:
low-threshold access to PrEP / PEP
screening for sexually transmitted infections
vaccinations for relevant infections
holistic HIV and hepatitis follow-up
referral to specialised external care (if needed)
Do you need support?
Not every form of chemsex is necessarily problematic. However, you may find yourself caught in a spiral of negative experiences that increasingly affect your life. It is therefore important to monitor your own situation.
If you recognise yourself in one or more of the situations below, it may be helpful to talk about it.
Do you no longer have sex without drugs?
Does your use affect your daily functioning? (e.g. cancelling appointments, arriving late at work)
Do you regret sexual acts afterwards when you were under the influence?
Do you use more than you intended?
Do others point out that you use too much?
Are you concerned about sexually transmitted infections, or would you like more information on PrEP or PEP?
Do you use chems to compensate for the negative effects of previous use?
Does your use put yourself or others at risk? (e.g. taking too much G, driving under the influence)
Make an appointment
How does the support process work?
(1) Intake consultation
During the first consultation, you will receive more information about our approach and have the opportunity to discuss your needs and expectations. Together, we reflect on the impact chemsex has on you and explore the direction you would like to take. It is okay if you do not yet know what that direction is. This can be part of the process.
(2) Start of support or referral
Based on the intake, and in consultation with you, we will initiate support or provide a referral, depending on your needs, for example to a physician (medical care), psychologist (mental health) or sexologist (sexual health). Every step in this process is discussed with you.
Who are we?
The Chemsex Centre is an interdisciplinary and specialised centre supporting people who engage in chemsex. It consists of healthcare professionals affiliated with the Institute of Tropical Medicine who, drawing on their experience and areas of expertise (psychosocial care, medicine, psychology and sexology), support people in changing their chemsex behaviour. The centre builds on more than ten years of experience in providing care. We always approach chemsex in its entirety, paying attention to both the use of substances and the sexual context.
Improving care through scientific research
We believe it is important to better understand chemsex in all its dimensions and to continuously improve our care. We do this through scientific research. During your care trajectory, you may be invited to participate in a study. Participation is always voluntary, and your decision will have no impact whatsoever on the quality of care you receive.
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