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MDMA and Sexual Behavior: Ecstasy Users' Perceptions About Sexuality and Sexual Risk

Karen Mcelrath

Substance Use & Misuse 2005 DOI: 10.1081/ja-200066814 (opens in new tab)

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Study at a glance

AI-extracted from the abstract
Characteristics Qualitative study Peer reviewed
Sample size 98
Population Current and former users of MDMA
Duration 6-month period prior to the interview
Topics MDMA
Keywords Feeling Condom Sexual arousal Human sexuality Clinical psychology Closeness Perception Developmental psychology Sexual behavior
Citations 102
Key findings MDMA use is associated with emotional closeness and reduced desire for penetrative sex, yet among those who engage in sex, sexual risk taking is prevalent.

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between MDMA (Ecstasy), sexual behavior, and sexual risk taking. The sample consisted of 98 current and former users of MDMA. Several strategies were utilized to recruit respondents and data were collected through in-depth interviews during 1997 and 1998. The majority of respondents had used MDMA during the 6-month period prior to the interview and a large percentage had consumed the drug on 100 occasions or more. Most respondents reported feelings of emotional closeness while consuming MDMA but without the desire for penetrative sex. Others, however, reported that MDMA increased sexual arousal and some respondents (in particular, gay and bisexual females) had used MDMA specifically for sexual enhancement. Sexual risk taking (e.g., having multiple partners, engaging in sex without a condom) was prevalent among respondents who did engage in sexual activity during MDMA episodes. Explanations for the findings are offered and implications for prevention/intervention are discussed.

Comparable studies

Other qualitative studies on MDMA, most cited first.

Study Year Design Participants
Phenomenology and Sequelae of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Use Psychiatrists who had taken MDMA 1992 Qualitative study n = 20
Perceived Benefits of MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy beyond Symptom Reduction: Qualitative Follow-Up Study of a Clinical Trial for Individuals with Treatment-Resistant PTSD Veterans, firefighters, and police officers with chronic, treatment-resistant PTSD 2019 Qualitative study using interpretative phenomenological analysis n = 19
Negative Experiences on Ecstasy: The Role of Drug, Set, and Setting Current or former users of Ecstasy 2002 Qualitative study n = 98
A Qualitative Exploration of Relational Ethical Challenges and Practices in Psychedelic Healing Practitioners who have administered MDMA and psilocybin to clients in underground... 2021 Qualitative study n = 23
Patterns, Trends, and Meanings of Drug Use by Dance-drug Users in Edinburgh, Scotland Clubbers in clubs and pre-club bars 2004 Cross-sectional survey with focus groups n = 124

Citations in the library

Cited by 23

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Cites 5

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