Covid-19: Couples should wear masks when having sex to reduce risk of transmission, scientists opine

A guide to having sex amid a global pandemic.

Syahindah Ishak | June 04, 2020, 10:37 PM

Update: This article has been updated to highlight that the original Annals of Internal Medicine article is a scientific commentary and not a study proper. The purpose of the scientific commentary, in this instance, is for the authors to provide health care providers some resources to address sexual health matters with patients during this Covid-19 pandemic.


Getting frisky with your partner in the midst of the ongoing pandemic carries some risk of transmission, according to a scientific commentary from researchers at Harvard University.

The scientific commentary is not a study proper, but it contains views by researchers on a subject -- in this case, to assist health care providers with resources to address sexual health implications with patients, as physical distancing due to Covid-19 has impact on sexual well-being.

The commentary suggested methods for dealing with sexual practices, given that "all types of in-person sexual activity probably carry risk for SARS-CoV-2 transmission", the authors wrote.

The situations are ranked based on how likely one can catch the virus while "doing it".

Interestingly, no pleasure and self-pleasure appear as some of the varied options -- and with mask-wearing even appearing as the most incongruous solution during sexual activity.

Wear masks and avoid kissing

The riskiest sexual scenario is: "Sex with persons other than those with whom one is self-quarantined".

If one is to find oneself in this situation, the suggested solution is to wear masks and avoid any forms of kissing.

In addition, those involved in physical intimacy should not perform any "fecal-oral" acts and anything that involves semen or urine.

One should also take a shower before and after engaging in the sexual activity.

Lastly, clean the physical space with alcohol wipes or soap when done.

Having sex with someone you're quarantined with is safer

According to the researchers' opinion, having sex with someone you're quarantined with is safer.

Even though this might sound like no-brainer advice, there is still risk.

If one partner was exposed to the virus while outside the home, they could transmit it to the other person.

The study added that even if that partner is asymptomatic, the risk of infection is still possible.

Abstinence is the safest approach

Ultimately, the study stated that the safest approach to having sex in the middle of a pandemic is not to have any.

Abstinence provides a "low risk for infection, though not feasible for many".

But if abstaining is a challenge for you, the next best option is, well, masturbation.

Top image by Juan Rojas via Unsplash.