"Very Safety-Conscious and Consent-Focused": Exploring Harm Reduction Practices at Group Sex Events

Group sex, which encompasses sexual activity among more than two people, is prevalent across diverse genders and sexualities. For many of its participants, group sex is an important source of pleasure and belonging. However, it is most often studied in the context of STI risk and related harm reduction, which isolates STI-related harm reduction behaviors from broader community norms and culture, obscuring important community dynamics. In the present study, we investigated a broad range of harm reduction practices employed by group sex participants in southwestern British Columbia, Canada. Through thematic analysis of interviews with 20 participants, we identified diverse harm reduction strategies enacted before, during, and after events to mitigate physical, emotional, and social risks. These strategies included vetting attendees in advance, establishing consent norms (e.g., consent circles, color-coded bracelets), promoting STI prevention (e.g., regular testing, barrier usage), and maintaining privacy. Findings highlight a collaborative approach to harm reduction, emphasizing both community trust and individual responsibility/accountability, reflecting a broader culture of care. This work broadens the scope of harm reduction in group sex contexts beyond STI prevention, offering insights applicable to broader sexual wellness initiatives and discussions of consent and safety in sexual communities.