Unwavering Ambiguity: Grappling with the Complexities of the Unknown
With the rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like syphilis and chlamydia in Germany, and the uncertainty surrounding the Corona virus, experts from the BZgA are offering a telephone action to address concerns and provide answers.
The telephone action, running from 10 am to 4 pm on November 3rd, will focus on discussing the symptoms of STIs and providing advice on safe sex practices during the pandemic.
To protect oneself from STIs, the key steps are:
- Use condoms: Latex or polyurethane condoms (including female condoms) should be used before vaginal, oral, and anal sex to reduce STI risk.
- Have one sexual partner and ensure any new partners are tested for STIs before engaging in sex.
Regarding COVID-19-specific precautions, while direct sexual transmission of the virus is not a primary mode, close physical proximity and respiratory exchange during sex increase risk. To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the CDC recommends:
- Following COVID-19 general prevention measures like ensuring both partners are symptom-free or have recovered from recent infections.
- The CDC no longer recommends strict isolation for COVID-19 positive people beyond symptom control, but vulnerable individuals (older, immunocompromised) should maintain extra precautions such as masking.
- COVID-19 vaccines remain the most effective way to reduce severe illness risk from COVID-19.
Additional recommendations during the pandemic include:
- Minimizing the number of sexual partners to reduce potential exposure.
- Considering virtual or less close-contact sexual activities to reduce respiratory transmission.
- Avoiding sex if either partner has symptoms of COVID-19 or recent exposure until cleared.
The use of condoms and monogamy remain the most effective ways to prevent STIs. COVID-19 prevention aligns with general public health guidelines for close contact, emphasizing vaccination and symptom monitoring.
No single method is 100% effective against infections, so layering precautions is important. Questions about the possibility of catching Corona through sex, self-protection, and avoiding intimate contact have arisen, and these can be answered anonymously during the telephone action. Information about preventing an HIV infection can also be obtained during the action.
The telephone number for the action is 0221/ 892031. The topic of safe sex is relevant, regardless of the Corona virus. According to statistics, slightly more than half of people who suspect an STI in Germany seek medical help. It is crucial to prioritize one's health and seek help when needed.
- In light of the rise in sexually transmitted infections and the ongoing concerns surrounding COVID-19, experts from the BZgA will provide answers and discuss the importance of sexual health-and-wellness during their telephone action on November 3rd.
- To ensure overall health and wellness, it's crucial to practice safe sex, which includes using condoms and maintaining monogamy, as well as being mindful of COVID-19 prevention measures, such as vaccination and symptom monitoring, when engaging in intimate activities.