The Coronavirus hit us hard. It prompted us to question our self-care and the global condom shortage and also questioning our sexual habits. With more time indoors with our significant others or partners, the lockdown left most people to wonder whether it is safe to have sex right now. So, we compiled a list of crucial questions and answers about having sex during the quarantine.
How Does Coronavirus Spread?
The Coronavirus can spread rapidly and aggressively, which is why many of us carefully consider how we interact with each other recently. We know that the virus is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, mostly when the infected person coughs or sneezes. One cough can produce up to 3,000 droplets, and one sneeze can produce up to 10,000 droplets, so you do the math.
Not only are people’s health in danger of respiratory transmission, but there are two more possible ways you can contract the disease: via aerosol transmission and contact transmission.
Aerosol transmission happens when microscopic particles of the virus stay in the air or travel through the air with the current. According to a study from The New England Journal of Medicine, Coronavirus particles can remain in the air for up to three hours.
Another type of transmission, contact transmission, happens when an infected person sneezes on an object, which then another person touches and contracts the virus by touching their nose or mouth afterward.
Is Coronavirus Sexually Transmissible?
As of now, there is no evidence to suggest that COVID-19, can be transmitted through vaginal or anal intercourse. However, it’s important to note that while having sex, it’s common to kiss and sweat, risking the transfer of the virus after ingesting saliva or other fluids which potentially carry the virus.
Can I Have Sex With My Current Partner?
Sex involves very close contact with another person, and yes, you can definitely infect your partner with it. So, if one of you is positive and you don’t live together, the best option is to abstain from sex.
On the other hand, If you live with your partner, and you know you’re negative, you’re perfectly safe to enjoy sex to relax and get your mind off this stressful situation.
Since this is a new virus, we do not yet know what all the ways you can contract it are. The latest research suggests that COVID-19 stays in the fecal matter and can spread through oral-fecal contact. So, staying away from the anal parts during sex is a smart move.
What Sexual Behavior Can I Engage in Right Now?
All sexual behavior is safe, as long as you take the right precautions:
- Someone with the virus can be asymptomatic, so ideally, sex should be with someone you’re isolating/quarantining with or who is a regular sexual partner within your household.
- If you or your partner is COVID-19 positive, it’s best to stay clear of each other for as long as possible.
- During this time, it’s very important to wear and use protection, like condoms, during all sexual acts. It’s better to take all precautionary measures to stay safe.
Can I Have Sex With a New Partner?
No! Epidemiologists advise that we avoid contact with a person who is infected or suspected to have the virus. Naturally, you cannot be sure whether your new partner is infected, so abstain from having sex during this time.
Even more so, if you met the person a few days ago, you’re risking both your health and the health of the members of your household. A one-night stand with an unknown partner and in areas where many cases of coronavirus infections have been confirmed is potentially dangerous.
What Can I Do to Stay Safe?
Definitely use a contraceptive, like a condom, during anal or vaginal sex to mitigate the chance of a spread. Practicing safe oral sex is very important. Flavored condoms are made exactly for that; to prevent the transmission of oral infections while remaining enjoyable and intimate. There’s no reason why you can’t have fun during the quarantine. Just be safe about it, so you don’t regret it later.
Other Useful Advice About Safer Sex During the Coronavirus Pandemic
It’s essential that during self-isolation you remain healthy and clean. That includes your personal and sexual hygiene. Organic water-based lubricants can keep vaginal pH balanced, and using high-quality, durable condoms can prevent STI transmission and unplanned pregnancies. It’s projected that the birthrate in nine months will increase. If you don’t want to be a statistic, be sure to wrap it up!
Clean up after sex is just as important and necessary. Taking a shower or using alcohol-free wipes can keep your body and genitals clean, balanced, and refreshed
It will be tough, but try to refrain from finding new sexual partners for the next few weeks. The good news is, there are always alternatives like masturbation, sex toys, video-calls, sexting, and more.
The Takeaway
There is no evidence to support that Coronavirus or COVID-19 can be transmitted through vaginal or anal intercourse. It does spread through oral-fecal contact, so make sure to shower or clean your body with wipes before and after the deed.
While you’re pretty safe to have sex with your long-term partner if they’re negative, it is best to avoid one-night stands and having sex with a person whose health condition is unknown to you.