With Mississippi on lockdown and the stay-at-home orders in place, you’re probably wondering what this means for you and bae. While we recommend minimizing contact with others, we know that you might be tempted to “quarantine and chill.” So we compiled this list of health-related information to help you be smart and play your part with your sexual health and fighting the virus.
1. Be informed about how COVID-19 is spread.
It is a respiratory virus that can be found in droplets that form from respiration (i.e., breathing, talking, coughing, sneezing, etc.). The virus is thought to spread mainly from people within close contact (approximately six feet) of a person with COVID-19. Research also suggests that people may acquire the virus through the air and after touching contaminated objects.
2. Remember that abstinence is the safest option.
Abstinence is the only 100% effective way to prevent pregnancy and STIs. And because abstinence requires social distancing, it could even reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
3. If you choose to have sex during COVID-19, protect yourself by being prepared.
Understand that a person who is asymptomatic (or doesn’t have symptoms) can still transmit the virus. However, if you choose to have sex with a partner, please adhere to the following: consent, condoms, and contraceptive options.
4. Engage in safe sexual health practices.
Remember that kissing can easily pass COVID-19. Avoid kissing anyone who is not part of your small circle of close contacts, and use condoms and dental dams to reduce contact with saliva or feces, especially during oral or anal sex.
Washing up before and after sex is more important than ever. Be sure to wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and wash all surfaces (especially sex toys) with soap and warm water, too. Disinfect keyboards, touch screens, and any other surfaces that you share with others.
5. Skip sex (or any physical contact) if you or your partner are not feeling well!
If you or a partner start experiencing symptoms or may have COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Disclaimer: COVID-19 is a new disease and we are still learning how it spreads, the severity of illness it causes, and to what extent it may spread in the United States. As new information about COVID-19 becomes available, recommendations are subject to change.
Sources:
Can I have sex? A guide to intimacy during the coronavirus outbreak