Understanding Group Sex: The Risks and Safe Practices
Group sex can seem exciting, but it’s important to be aware of the risks involved, especially in places like sex clubs. Here’s why they can be a bad idea and how to enjoy group sex safely.
Consent
Consent is a fundamental aspect of healthy relationships and intimacy. It is essential that all parties involved feel comfortable and agree to the activities being engaged in. Ensuring that consent is given freely, without pressure or coercion, is the right thing to do. It’s important to remember that consent is not just a one-time check-in; it should be an ongoing conversation. Everyone has the right to change their mind at any point, regardless of the situation or context. If something doesn’t feel right, or if you’re unsure, it’s perfectly fine to say no.
Feeling safe is a crucial component when it comes to consent. Each individual should be in an environment where they can express their feelings openly and honestly. Trust your instincts—if you ever feel uncomfortable, you have the right to take a step back or leave. No one should feel obligated to participate in any activity that they are not fully on board with. Establishing clear boundaries and communicating them with your partner/s can help ensure that everyone feels secure and respected.
It's essential to create spaces where conversations around consent are welcomed and encouraged. Open discussions about desires, limits, and safety are vital for fostering respect and understanding between partners. Remember, consent is sexy, and the key is to prioritise each other's feelings and values. This process not only enhances the intimacy shared but also reinforces a mutual respect that lays the foundation for a fulfilling and healthy relationship. Always prioritise your well-being and that of your partner, and never hesitate to advocate for your own comfort.
Why Sex Clubs Can Be a Bad Idea
Risk of STIs: Sex clubs can have many people engaging in sexual activities, which increases the likelihood of spreading sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs can be serious and sometimes don’t show symptoms, making them hard to detect.
Lack of Pre-Testing: Many people who attend sex clubs may not have been tested for STIs recently. Without proper screening, you may be exposing yourself to infections that could affect your health.
Chemsex Risks: Some groups use drugs in combination with sex, known as chemsex, which can lead to risky behaviour, poor decision-making, and health issues. It’s crucial to be cautious about the substances you use, as they can endanger your health and safety. If you take drugs you may loose your ability to make informed decisions, you may of only wanted to have sex with 2 or 3 people but if you become confused then it could be 10 or 20……. is that what you really consented to?
Best Practices for Safe Group Sex
If you decide to explore group sex, here are some ways to do it more safely:
Stick to a Trusted Circle: Instead of engaging with strangers at clubs, consider having group sex with friends you trust. This can help ensure that everyone is more likely to have similar health standards and comfort levels.
Regular STI Testing: Make sure you and your partners get tested regularly. Knowing your status helps keep everyone safe. It’s a good idea to discuss testing openly with your partners.
Use Protection: Always use condoms or dental dams during sex. These barriers help prevent the spread of STIs. Be sure to have a supply on hand.
Consider Medications: If you’re at higher risk, talking with a healthcare provider about medications like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) get more information about PrEP here. For those engaged in group sex, discussing the use of doxyPEP (a preventive antibiotic) might help reduce the risk of syphilis, gonorrhoea and chlamydia; click here for more information on doxyPEP.
Contraception for Women: If you’re a woman participating in group sex, it's essential to use contraception to prevent pregnancy. Discuss birth control options with a healthcare provider to find what works best for you. Get more information on contraception here.
Vaccinations: Women and gay men should ensure they have received the HPV vaccine. This vaccine protects against human papillomavirus, which can lead to certain cancers. It’s also a good idea to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B, both of which can spread through sexual contact. Top tip, in the UK they may start releasing the Meningitis B vaccine which gives partial protection against gonorrhoea (spelt gonorrhea in the USA), the vaccine is expected to be out in September 2025.
Conclusion
While group sex can be enjoyable, it's important to approach it with caution. By understanding the risks, keeping communication open with partners, and following safety practices, you can help protect your health and enjoy a more safe experience. Always prioritise your well-being and that of your partners.