Getting Inside the Mind of Gay and Bisexual Men Who Have Sex with Men with Sexualized Drug Use - A Systematic Review

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Oliveira, PM (Author) Other; Reis, CS (Author) Other; vieira-coelho, ma (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: International Journal of Sexual Health

Pages: 1-23

ISSN: 1931-7611

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-39P

DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2260372

Abstract (EN): ObjectivesSexualized Drug Use (SDU) consists of using any drug purposely before or during sex with the intent of modifying sex experiences. SDU is especially practiced among Gay and Bisexual Men who have Sex with Men (GBMSM). This study aims to review the relevant literature to identify and summarize the reasons reported by GBMSM to engage in SDU.MethodsA systematic review of the literature using PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO, comprising qualitative and quantitative papers published between 2010 and 2022, was conducted with a narrative synthesis of the findings. PRISMA guidelines were followed.ResultsOur search identified 1400 publications, of which 23 were included. Reasons to engage in SDU were aggregated as follows: (1) Enhancing sexual sensations and performance, (2) Achieving hedonic mental and emotional states, (3) Tackling negative thoughts and feelings, and (4) Social motivations. Different sample methods and ways of asking for motivations may limit the internal validity of these conclusions.ConclusionBoth individual and social factors are involved in the decision to engage in SDU. SDU practices should not be medicalized, however therapeutic support if needed should provide multidisciplinary, pleasure-centered, harm-reducing care interventions, specifically designed for these minorities of GBMSM.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 23