Every June, the UK comes together to celebrate Men’s Health Week. An entire week designed to encourage men to become more aware of health problems while supporting them to find the courage to do something about it. Men can sometimes find it difficult talking about their own health and wellbeing and talking about sexual health can be even trickier. 

This year, Men’s Health Week is focussing on encouraging men to take action on Covid-19. Statistically, more men have died as a result of coronavirus and whilst men don’t always like to discuss their health problems, it’s more vital than ever to focus on protecting mens sexual health. Here’s the latest information on coronavirus and sex and what men can do to protect their sexual health.

What we already know about Coronavirus and sex? 

• Coronavirus can be spread through droplets that come out of your nose and mouth and are then breathed in through another person. This means kissing an infected person will significantly increase your risk of contracting the virus. 
• A study conducted by the University of Stirling has found traces of SARS-CoV2 in faeces, for over a month after a patient has tested positive. It’s still unknown whether coronavirus can be transmitted through the faecal-oral route, but Avert.org has mentioned that rimming may increase your risk.  
• Researchers have also discovered traces of coronavirus in semen from a small study in China. Further research on whether the virus can be spread through unprotected sex needs to be conducted and verified but it is advisable to continue wearing a condom and practice safer sex.
• The government announced that people who live alone can now stay overnight at another person’s house for the first time in 11 weeks. This is an exciting development for those that live apart from their partners. 

How can we take action on the spread of Covid-19 during sex? 

• Wash your hands before and after you have sex.
• Wash sex toys with warm soapy water before and after use. 
• Wear a condom and practice safer sex. 
• If one of you starts to display symptoms of Covid-19, self-isolate from each other and withdraw from any sexual or physical contact.

 Sexual Health Statistics: 

Public Health reported that in 2018, there were 447,694 new STI diagnoses made at Sexual Health services in England. The four main commonly diagnosed Sexually Transmitted Infections were: 

• Chlamydia - with 218,096 new cases
• Gonorrhoea with 56,259 new cases
• 1st episode of Genital Herpes with 33,867 new cases
• Syphilis with 33,867 new cases

(data taken from Public Health England)

Research reported by The Terrence Higgins Trust found that a whopping 84% were currently abstaining from intercourse with someone outside of their immediate household. While this has helped reduce the risk of spreading Coronavirus as well as sexually transmitted infections, we need to think about how to protect ourselves once lock-down is lifted.

The best way to take action on Covid-19 and protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections is by wearing a condom. Condoms provide protection from sexually transmitted infections, HIV and pregnancy.  Their job is to stop sperm coming into contact with the vagina, preventing any sexual fluid from being transferred.  

We have a wide range of condoms available, from ones that give you intense orgasms, ones that delay ejaculation, to flavoured condoms, perfect for oral sex. We even have a variety pack if you like a different sensation every time you have sex.

If you’re unsure about how to wear a condom correctly, watch our helpful guide here. 

To find out more about Men’s Health Week, you can visit the Men’s Health Forum website here.

Information correct at the time of publishing.