Yes, within households you can have sex with your sexual partner if you’re both feeling well and you both consent to sex. If you don’t live together, you can form an extended household with your sexual partner without the need to physically distance as long as you are both feeling well and you both consent to sex. Most people who were shielding can now follow the same advice as the general population. However there are still some groups of people at increased risk and everyone previously advised to shield is recommended to follow physical distancing and hygiene measures.
You should avoid sexual contact if you have tested positive for COVID-19, have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been advised to self-isolate. You will be asked to self-isolate at home for 10 days if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or you have tested positive for it. If you live with someone who has symptoms or has tested positive, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, you will be asked to self-isolate at home for 14 days. Self-isolating means no physical contact – no hugging, kissing or sex, and you are advised to sleep separately.
It’s important to be aware of your own and your partner’s mental health during this period and the potential for reduced enthusiasm for sexual contact. Healthy relationships and open communication are key.