By JESSICA LYNCH
NSW Health has outlined guidelines for those wondering how to navigate having sex while in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic.
One such guideline from NSW Health’s ‘PlaySafe’ portal encourages those wanting to get down and dirty to wear a mask while doing the deed to lower the chance of potentially transmitting the virus.
The portal goes on to detail how various body fluids are able to transmit Covid-19 from one person to another.
“While one study from China did find traces of COVID-19 in semen, there is currently no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 can be passed on through semen or vaginal fluids,” the website said.
“What we do know for sure is that COVID-19 is transmitted via respiratory droplets (saliva, snot … basically anything that sprays out of your mouth or nose).
“And having sex without sharing respiratory droplets is pretty hard (and probably not that much fun!).”
PlaySafe did add, however, that having sex with a partner who is living with you is safe.
“If you’re living with your partner sex is probably okay, as you are already sharing space and being in close quarters,” the website continued.
While it discourages casual sex, it does outline reduction strategies for those who are going to anyway – including to wear a mask.
“Wear a three-layer mask to cover your nose and mouth if you can,” the website read. It also advises people to ‘avoid kissing’ and ‘wear condoms and dental dams’.
PlaySafe explained that mutual masturbation is likely the safest option, as long as it’s done at a distance, of which they recommend being ‘a minimum of 1.5 metres (apart) at all times’.
“Consider wearing masks to minimise the risk of Covid-19 even further, or even take the fun online,” the NSW Health advice stated.
Aussies aren’t the only ones who have been asked to mask up while getting it on; Canadians have also been told to wear a face mask while having sex by the country’s Chief Public Health Officer.
The #COVID19 virus has picked up pace and is covering a lot of ground in Canada. We need to adjust our P.A.C.E. to win this marathon. P.A.C.E. yourself – everyday, all day and let’s win this #TogetherApart!#COVID19KnowHow: https://t.co/w27G7rHASE pic.twitter.com/pSv0ipQmQV
— Dr. Theresa Tam (@CPHO_Canada) December 4, 2020
Dr. Theresa Tam said wearing a mask during intercourse and only kissing one regular partner would lower the chance of spreading or contracting Covid-19.
“Sexual health is an important part of our overall health. However, sex can be complicated in the time of COVID-19,” Dr Tam said in a statement.
“Current evidence indicates there is a very low likelihood of contracting COVID-19 through semen or vaginal fluids.”
“But, sexual activity with new partners does increase your risk of infection (or) spreading by close contact, like kissing.”
