No kissing, face masks and hand washing - here's the latest advice on practicing even safer sex during the pandemic

The advice recommends against kissing during sex (Photo: Shutterstock)The advice recommends against kissing during sex (Photo: Shutterstock)
The advice recommends against kissing during sex (Photo: Shutterstock)

Coronavirus has changed many areas of everyday life - and, according to one charity, sex is no exception to the rule.

Sexual health charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust, recently issued advice on avoiding coronavirus transmission during sex, with guidelines including recommendations against kissing.

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The trust says that the advice is intended to "balance our need for sex and intimacy with the risks of the spread of COVID-19."

How to practice even safer sex

Masturbation, participating in phone sex or using sex toys are all recommended as the safest options for being intimate during the age of the coronavirus.

In terms of how to pick a sexual partner, the trust says that during the pandemic, someone you already live with is the best option.

While we should still be socially distancing, the charity acknowledges that it's unrealistic for people to stop having sex entirely. If you are going to have sex with people outside of your household, the guidelines suggest limiting the number of partners.

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When meeting someone new, you should ask if they, or anyone in their household, has had symptoms or tested positive for the virus.

'Wear a face mask during sex'

Coronavirus can spread through mucus, breath or saliva, either directly or if picked up by others through contact with hard surfaces. For that reason, the trust recommends against kissing, and suggests positions that do not involve face-to-face contact, as well as wearing a face mask during sex.

The advice also points out that the virus has been detected in semen and faeces, so you should use condoms and dams during oral sex to mitigate risk.

You should practice the same hygiene as in everyday life, washing or sanitising your hands thoroughly before and after sex.

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The trust also warns people not to forget about their sexual health during the pandemic, saying it's the perfect time to check up and make sure you're not carrying anything that could be passed along.

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