The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is not a sexually transmitted infection, but we know the virus is transmitted during close sexual contact. If you're concerned about COVID-19, check out these ways to stay sexy while limiting the risk of transmission.
Our team on JOY 94.9's Well, Well, Well navigated this topic as they spoke to Bryony Cole (CEO & Founder, The Future of Sex), adult film performer and sex worker Max Arion, and Associate Professor Edwina Wright from The Alfred to discuss this issue - from sex tech to online sex work to what it means to be intimate.
News and information around coronavirus and COVID-19 has moved very quickly. As a result, a lot of people have asked what this means for sex. Here are some frequently asked questions from the community.
We know that the virus is transmitted by droplets from the mouth or saliva. These can be transmitted by coughing, sneezing, laughing, and kissing.
Plus, if you touch a surface with droplets from the mouth or saliva on it and then touch your mouth or face, you can also transmit COVID-19. Due to the presence of saliva, oral sex can easily transmit COVID-19.
We know that the virus transmitted by droplets from the mouth and saliva. So it makes sense that kissing will pass on COVID-19.
COVID-19 is not a sexually transmitted infection. While anal, vaginal, and front-hole sex don't necessarily transmit the virus, the close contact and presence of saliva during sex both pose a risk of transmitting COVID-19.
Antiretroviral drugs used to prevent and treat HIV do not prevent you from COVID-19.
Neither Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) or HIV medication will prevent you from acquiring COVID-19 or prevent you from transmitting it to others.
Provided you're both well, you can certainly continue to have sex together.
Communication is key when it comes to sex with a regular casual partner (aka a fuck buddy). You need to have a clear and honest conversation about what potential exposure each of you has with others. You also need to let each other know immediately if either of you becomes unwell.
Whether you're dancing on your own or looking to hook up from a distance, there are a range of way risk-free ways to get off.
Here are a few strategies to get you going...
Masturbation and self-pleasure can be safely enjoyed by all of us at practically any time. Try new things to spice your masturbation habits. Have you tried to find different positions to masturbate in? Or have you tried someplace other than your bed?
Are you separated from your partner or sexual networks and want to reconnect? Facetime doesn’t have to be *just* for faces. Connect with each other via photo sharing, webchat, or on the apps. You can use Zoom or Skype to help everyone come together without coming together.
If you are wanting to meet new networks, then maybe explore some of the online chat rooms. Explore what the internet has to offer when it comes to chatting with and watching others on camera, such as CAM4 and Chatturbate
Digital safety disclaimer: Always be mindful of what you post online, and keep digital consent mutual.
In the words of Avenue Q, "The Internet is for Porn." Revisit your old favourites or maybe now is the time to explore something new. You can also follow some of your favourite adult performers through Only Fans or Just For Fans. There are thousands of videos. It will cost you, but this is a way to support these performers and keep them making more content.
Whether its online sex or phone sex, you can heat things up by choosing the right words. If you need some encouragement on how to talk dirty, HuffPost offer some tips with How to talk dirty without being Awkward.
Sex toys are a massive global industry with countless options out there for everybody and every body. With a sea of options out there - why not dive in and find out what gets you off!?
Want to get others involved? Check out options like 'teledildonics' or remote-controlled toys – your partner doesn't even have to be in the same country to turn the device (or you) on.
If you are having casual sex and are worried about COVID-19 transmission here are some ways to reduce your risk, but remember none of these are fail safe solutions for avoiding COVID-19.
Selected tips adapted with permission from PrEPster.info
If you or a sexual partner become unwell. It's vital that you let each other know as soon as possible.
Symptoms of COVID-19 can include:
While regular colds and flu continue to circulate, having any of these symptoms should prompt you to get a COVID-19 test. While unwell, it really important to stay away from others to prevent passing on any illness. If you have COVID-19, you will need to self-isolate and let your sexual partners from the last two weeks know.
If you believe you have been exposed to or have acquired COVID-19, you can call the Coronavirus hotline 1800 675 398 (24 hours).
Obviously, this is not the first time our community has faced a health issue that has impacted our sexual pleasure and wellbeing. We are incredibly good at adopting effective health strategies - and that is true of COVID-19. Let’s look out for ourselves and each other in a difficult time.
For more information go to your local state health department website.
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