Sex in the times of covid-19: Harvard researchers suggest wearing a face mask

Sexual intimacy with your partner is important, but not at the cost of your life. That’s why the good folks at Harvard are suggesting wearing a face mask during sexual intercourse.
wear mask while having sex
Abide by the policy of no mask, no sex to prevent covid-19. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Nikita Bhardwaj Updated: 4 Jun 2020, 22:28 pm IST
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Sex and covid-19–well, a lot has been said about this relationship. In fact, ever since the pandemic began, scientists have been trying to figure out whether the act of intimacy is an open invitation to covid-19 infection or not. 

Now, according to Harvard University’s new study, wearing a face mask while having sex can be the solution to prevent the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The findings of the study have been published in the journal of Annals of Internal Medicine

It’s the way that covid-19 spreads that makes sex so risky
We all know that coronavirus spreads from an infected person via droplets. If someone sneezes in close proximity or you come under the radar of someone’s saliva while the person is talking, then there are high chances of you getting covid-19. 

When it comes to covid-19, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to know that when you indulge in sexual intercourse then the close proximity of you and your partner can put you at risk if your partner is a carrier. And since many covid-19 patients are asymptomatic, getting infected during sexual intercourse is a real possibility.

The researchers also point out that if you are involved in a sexual act with a stranger then the probability of you getting SARS-CoV-2 can multiply by many folds. That’s why Harvard researchers are stressing upon wearing face masks. 

Sex during covid-19 is very risky so it is better avoid it, according to the researchers
Researchers have also recommended that oral sex and kissing should be avoided completely as the transmission of the virus is unavoidable in such cases. 

Not to mention, there is a tug of war situation brewing when it comes to semen–as researchers are yet to come to a conclusion whether an infected man’s sperm can spread covid-19 or not. 

A study published in the journal of Fertility and Sterility in April claimed that covid-19 doesn’t spread via sperm. However, a more recent study from the prestigious journal JAMA Network Open has found that sperm can indeed carry the covid-19 virus.

covid-19
The jury is still out on whether covid-19 can spread via sexual transmission. Image courtesy: Shutterstock.

“Given that abstinence-only recommendations are likely to promote shame and unlikely to achieve intended behavioral outcomes, sex-positive recommendations regarding remote sexual activity are optimal during the pandemic, balancing human needs for intimacy with personal safety and pandemic control,” the study authors said.

This is how you can keep yourself safe while having sex according to Harvard researchers
Although these tips aren’t 100% foolproof, they can still make a significant difference. So, read what these Harvard researchers have to say:

1. Wearing a mask during intercourse is important
2. Using a condom while having sex is imperative.
3. Have a bath both before and after having sex.
4. Disinfect the bed sheet and the area post-coitus.
5. Avoid sex with strangers.

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PERSONALISE NOW

So stay safe folks. Don’t let the lust for pleasure put you at the risk of covid-19. 

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About the Author

Six-pack abs are all that Nikita needs, along with her daily dose of green tea. At Health Shots, she produces videos, podcasts, stories, and other kick-ass content. ...Read More

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