Table 2.

Proposed sexual approaches during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic

Sexual practice/methods	Details
Abstinence	Ideal and safest, not always practically feasible
Masturbation/self-gratification	Low risk for transmission
	Safe masturbation tips as followed in STD[52](washing hands before touching genitals, clean sex toys, not sharing sex toys, using new condoms each time, nonirritant, and safe lubricant)
Digital sex	Appropriate and mutual consent
	Sociocultural acceptance
	Risks of data leakage and theft
	Sexual extortion
	Sexual details/images of minors can have legal consequences
	Risk of cyber harassment and online sexual predation
	Special counseling for children and adolescents
Sex with a self-quarantined partner	Least risk to others
	Asymptomatic carriers pose a potential risk
	Increased risk of multiple sexual partners
Continuation of usual sexual activities	Risk reduction counseling[53] Reducing the number of sexual partners
	Risk of infection and transmission routes, sex education
	Awareness about performance anxiety, sexual frustration, and symptoms of sexual disorders
	Identifying COVID-19 symptoms and avoid sexual contact if present
	Wearing mask, hand and respiratory hygiene before and after intercourse
	Cleaning of the place of sexual intimacy
	Avoiding sexual behaviors that can lead to orofecal contact
	Minimum contact intimacy and regulated frequency of sex, if a suspected risk
Miscellaneous	Informed decision-making
	Emotional support and bonding
	Spending quality time
	Communication; sharing hope and joy
	“COVID-” free time

STD – Sexually transmitted disease; COVID-19 – Coronavirus disease 2019