5 Helpful Tips for Having Sex While Sick & Things to Remember

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Some people believe that sex while sick can feel different or even more intense than usual. According to some, sex, while sick, is a special sort of a high. Some proponents of “sex while ill” say it’s because of the fever, that it’s a natural form of intoxication, free of a hangover.

Some suggest that sex during a cold might offer temporary relief, though these claims are more anecdotal than scientific. Is there any truth to these beliefs, and are there any benefits of sex when sick? We did our research, and here’s what we’ve found out.

First things first – Can you catch a cold from sex?

Most definitely, yes. Sex, while sick, might sound tempting. However, engaging in sexual activity while sick increases the likelihood of transmitting germs due to close physical contact and the exchange of bodily fluids. This generally translates to a very high risk of catching a cold (or any other illness, for that matter).

According to Christiana Njoku, a certified relationship coach:

Sex is good, no doubt, but care must be taken while engaging in it when you are sick. Remember, your partner is involved, and their health should be your priority.

If the sick partner is running a fever, the chances are that they are very contagious, and you’re most likely to catch a cold too.

However, as many people say that they’re incredibly eager to have sex while sick, your partner may be extra demanding to have sex when sick. It can sometimes be challenging to turn down a partner’s advances, even when one of you is unwell.

If that happens to be the case, you may want to try some of the positions that reduce the chances of catching a cold yourself.

Is sex while sick right when you have other illnesses?

Now, what about other diseases? In some cases, you will probably not consider having sex while sick in the first place.

For example, if you have the flu, you’ll probably be exhausted and in a mood for nothing but getting better. The flu is dangerous, although a common disease, and you should avoid putting your partner at risk.

If you’re going through a stomach bug, even if you might be in the mood for some lovemaking in between trips to the loo, you should be selfless and spare your loved one the torment.

Stomach bugs can be highly contagious, and choosing to engage in sexual activity during such an illness might expose your partner to significant discomfort or illness.

Does sex boost your immune system?

It does. As long as you orgasm, that is. Research suggests that regular sexual activity may contribute to overall well-being and even support immune function.

It most probably achieves this through several mechanisms, including contributing to the production of proteins responsible for fighting off disease. That is, it functions on the cellular level, which might be why some people feel extra horny and love having sick sex.

Moreover, when sex is a display of love and intimacy, it works the same way as any other form of closeness and support.

It makes us feel safe and loved. Belonging and having a soulmate reduce stress levels. And, as we all know by now, low levels of stress equal high immunity and overall health.

Watch this video to learn more about having sex when you’re sick:

5 tips for having sex while sick

So, is sex good for you when you are sick? Does sex help with a cold? Can sex cure a cold?

While sex can have health benefits, it’s important to approach it cautiously when one or both partners are sick to minimize risks.

It boosts your health, and it makes you feel good. It can help prevent illness and even speed up recovery. To some extent, at least.

However, even though cold and flu viruses don’t spread via sexual bodily fluids, it does spread when you’re more than two meters away from someone.

Which you are during sex, not to speak of kissing and an occasional unpredictable sneeze. So, here are a few tips to make the best out of sick sex:

1. Avoid kissing and too much closeness to your face to minimize the risk of getting your partner sick. Unless you’re both ill, in which case, you can enjoy whatever you find pleasing.
2. Try positions that guarantee that your heads will be as much a part as possible to minimize the risk of transferring the virus to your partner, such as doggy style.
3. Avoid oral sex if your nose is congested. No further explanation is needed, as you do need to breathe.
4. Try having sex in the shower because the steam might help ease congestion and cough.
5. Try to make sure that both of you are comfortable and enjoying yourself. Good sex pleasures both of the partners, so make sure that both of you are fine with having sex while one or both of you are sick.

Relax. Although it’s a bit of an unusual situation, don’t stress over how it will go or if it will go at all. Try it, and if it doesn’t work, laugh it off and go back under the blanket. You’ll be up and getting it on again in no time!