Using drugs while having sex

Some people use recreational drugs during sex. Drugs can heighten sexual pleasure but they can also lead to lowered inhibitions, making it easier to make choices you wouldn't usually make.

There are steps you can take to reduce the chances of passing HIV or Hep C if you’re using drugs:

• If you snort drugs, use your own straw or bumper. Rolled-up sticky notes make single-use, disposable straws.
• If you smoke drugs, such as crystal meth, avoid sharing your pipe. If you do share a pipe, use your own mouthpiece.
• If you inject drugs, avoid sharing any equipment, including syringes, fiters, cookers, acidifiers, alcohol swabs, tourniquets and water. Try to use new equipment each time. Many communities offer services that provide new drug use equipment. These services have different names, such as needle and syringe programs or harm reduction programs. Ask a trusted health worker for more information about services in your area.