There is still a lot to learn about COVID-19 and sex. Recommendations today may change as the situation evolves. Here are some tips for enjoying sex while preventing the spread of COVID-19
- Know how COVID-19 is spread.
- You can get COVID-19 from a person who has it.
- COVID-19 is spread through contact with saliva or mucous and can be spread as far as 2m (6 feet) if someone coughs or sneezes
- Have sex with partners that are already close to you. You should avoid close contact – including sex – with anyone outside of your household. If you do have sex with others, have as few partners as possible. If you usually meet your sex partners online, now is the time to take a break from in-person dates. Consider video dating or chat rooms as an alternative.
- Skip sex if you or your partner is not feeling well. If you or your partner feel unwell, you may be developing symptoms of COVID-19. Avoid sex and especially kissing to prevent the spread.
- Prevent HIV, Sexually transmitted Infections (STI) and unplanned pregnancy. Using condoms is especially important right now. It may be difficult to access health care support during the COVID-19 pandemic. Decrease your risk of infection or unplanned pregnancy by using condoms every time. Make sure you have an effective form of birth control and you know where you can get it. If you think you have an infection or may be pregnant, contact your health care provider, visit a walk-in clinic or call public health.
Learn more about COVID-19 and sex by reviewing the attached fact sheet prepared by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.
For more information about healthy sexuality, learn about our sexual health clinics, sexually transmitted infections, or birth control.
