Close contact with an individual infected with the coronavirus, the agent responsible for COVID-19, whether engaging in sexual activity or not, can result in exposure.
The virus is transmitted through respiratory droplets emitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or sings. These droplets can be inhaled or come into contact with the mouth or nose of individuals nearby. Thus, interactions involving saliva exchange through kissing or other sexual actions could potentially expose individuals to the virus. People with COVID-19 may also deposit respiratory droplets on their skin and personal items. A sexual partner could contract the virus by touching these surfaces and subsequently touching their mouth, nose, or eyes. Furthermore, the COVID-19 virus can be contracted through contact with fecal matter. Engaging in sexual activities that involve exposure to feces could potentially lead to virus transmission.
Although no current evidence supports the transmission of the coronavirus through semen or vaginal fluids, traces of the virus have been identified in the semen of men who have had or are recovering from the virus. Additional research is necessary to ascertain the potential for sexual transmission of COVID-19.
Given that some COVID-19 carriers remain asymptomatic, it’s vital to maintain physical distance from others, particularly if the virus is prevalent in your community. This includes refraining from sexual interactions with individuals not residing in your household. If either you or your partner is unwell or suspects COVID-19 infection, it’s recommended to avoid kissing or engaging in sexual activity until both parties have recovered. Additionally, if either partner possesses underlying health conditions that increase the risk of severe illness from COVID-19, exercising caution is advisable.
The most secure sexual activity during the pandemic is masturbation. It’s essential to wash your hands and any used sex toys before and after the activity. Engaging in sexual experiences with partners via text, images, or videos is another option, preferably using encrypted platforms to ensure privacy.
Apart from sexual intimacy, there are alternative ways to cultivate or sustain emotional closeness with a partner from a distance. Virtual dates, sharing music preferences, exchanging letters, or dressing up for each other are creative ways to stay connected.
For those sexually active outside their household, consider the following precautions to minimize COVID-19 risk:
Limit the number of sexual partners.
Avoid partners displaying COVID-19 symptoms.
Refrain from kissing.
Avoid sexual behaviors with a risk of fecal-oral transmission or involving semen or urine.
Use condoms and dental dams for oral and anal sex.
Wear a mask during sexual encounters.
Thoroughly wash hands and shower before and after sexual activity.
Clean sex toys before and after usage with soap or alcohol wipes.
Sanitize the area where sexual activity occurs.
