Ecstasy and Sex Among Young Heterosexual Women: A Qualitative Analysis of Sensuality, Sexual Effects, and Sexual Risk Taking

MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine) Ecstasy has been shown to heighten senses, feelings of intimacy, and communication. This study addresses sensual and sexual responses to Ecstasy and the potential for risky sexual behavior. Qualitative data from 41 heterosexual female Ecstasy users in New York City (ages 18-29) were analyzed. Women reported both heightened sexual (e.g., desire, arousal, orgasmic intensity) and sensual (e.g., deep emotions, emotional closeness, feeling love, affectionate) experiences; however, experiences were more often classified as sensual. A majority of women who had engaged in sex while high on Ecstasy felt that the drug did not result in risky sexual behavior. Nevertheless, some reported engaging in behavior they would not have otherwise (e. g., anal sex) with partners they would not have had sex with while not under the influence. Findings support that Ecstasy alters heterosexual women's experience of sexual behavior. Programs seeking to address Ecstasy use among this population should also include the intersecting, and possibly motivating, roles that sexuality and sensuality play in using this drug.