Sexual health is an important part of our overall health. However, sex can be complicated in the time of COVID-19, especially for those without an intimate partner in their household or whose sexual partner is at higher risk for COVID-19

Canada’s top doctor recommends to skip kissing and perhaps wear a mask to prevent spreading Covid-19 when engaging in sex. Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, released a public statement Wednesday on safe practices when performing sexual activities.

“Sexual health is an important part of our overall health. However, sex can be complicated in the time of COVID-19, especially for those without an intimate partner in their household or whose sexual partner is at higher risk for COVID-19.” the statement says, “The lowest risk sexual activity during Covid-19 involves yourself alone.”

For Canadians choosing to “engage in an in-person sexual encounter” outside their space, Tam recommends the following steps to reduce risk.

• Monitoring yourself for symptoms of COVID-19 and not having sex if you or your partner is experiencing symptoms;
• Limiting your use of alcohol and other substances so you and your partner(s) can make safe decisions;
• Skipping kissing and avoiding face-to-face contact or closeness;
  • consider using a mask that covers the nose and mouth;
• Being aware if you or your partner may be at higher risk for more severe outcomes of COVID-19. This includes:
  • people of any age with underlying medical conditions;
  • people with compromised immune systems; and
  • people living with obesity.
• As usual, engaging in safer sex practices, including using condoms, knowing your STI status and the status of your partner.

“Current evidence indicates there is a very low likelihood of contracting the novel coronavirus through semen or vaginal fluids. However, even if the people involved do not have symptoms, sexual activity with new partners does increase your risk of getting or passing COVID-19 through close contact, like kissing. Remember as with all social interactions, try to keep your number of close contacts low if possible.”

Tam also reminded people that taking these precautions and staying conscious of the risks assumed, Canadians can find ways to enjoy physical intimacy while safeguarding the progress we have all made containing COVID-19.

The Chief Public Health Officer opened her statement by reminding the country there have been 129,425 cases of COVID-19 in Canada, including 9,132 deaths. An average of over 490 new cases has been reported daily during the most recent seven days.