Sexual Activity in Adolescents and Young Adults through COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been postulated that the sexual life of adolescent and young adults has been impacted in various aspects, potentially affecting their well-being. Our aim is to investigate the potential changes in the sexual activity and relationships of adolescents and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. In general, a decrease in sexual desire was reported during the COVID-19 pandemic, in both genders. Fewer sexual intercourses and bonding behaviors between partners were associated with loneliness and depressive symptoms. On the contrary, an increase in sexual desire was expressed in a few people, with masturbation to be the most preferable means of satisfaction. The present paper highlights the multifaceted impact of COVID-19 upon the sexual life of adolescents and young adults during the ongoing pandemic. The changes observed in their sexual activity and relationships, could provide the basis of future preventive and educational programs.

Compliance with COVID-19 Prevention and Risky Sexual Behaviour among Youths during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Osun State, Nigeria

“…In this study, we proceeded to assess the influencing factors of risky sexual behaviour and we found out that youths aged 20 -24 have higher likelihood of engaging in risky sexual behaviour during COVID-19 pandemic. Age has been shown to be a major driver of several health issues, this study is as well corroborating the fact youths of higher age (20-24 years) may have some level of dependence and low level of parental monitoring, physical interaction with peers, privacy, and ability to make unguided decisions [34]. Similarly, youths who belong to Yoruba ethnic group were less likely to engage in physical activities.…”

“…Social distancing, school closure, and restriction of activities lead to a reduction of any kind of social contact. Additionally, as they were obliged to stay most of the time inside, adolescents and young adults were subjected to increased parental monitoring, which reduced independence, physical interaction with peers, and privacy [34].…”

Adolescent Resilience during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review of the Impact of the Pandemic on Developmental Milestones

“…The pandemic has changed sexual interactions around the world and across age groups, decreasing sexual interaction for many individuals due to both logistical problems (i.e., social distancing), as well as due to psychological implications of the pandemic (i.e., anxiety), reducing sexual desire among individuals [ 65 ]. For adolescents specifically, it is estimated that there was a general decrease in sexual desire, as well as fewer instances of sexual intercourse resulting from COVID-19 [ 66 ]. These decreases may be due to a combination of COVID-19-related factors, ranging from isolation from friends and romantic partners, school settings, and other social environments, to heightened parental supervision and a decreased sense of privacy, to increased anxiety and stress associated with contracting COVID-19 or the pandemic in general.…”

“…These decreases may be due to a combination of COVID-19-related factors, ranging from isolation from friends and romantic partners, school settings, and other social environments, to heightened parental supervision and a decreased sense of privacy, to increased anxiety and stress associated with contracting COVID-19 or the pandemic in general. Beyond sexual activity, reports highlight the fact that overall sexual health and wellbeing of adolescents and youth have been adversely affected as a result of the pandemic; this includes “sexual activity, intimate relationships, access to contraception, protection from HIV, or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and physical, mental, or emotional well-being” [ 66 ] (p. 1). For instance, the decrease in STI screening resulting from the pandemic was alarming to many experts due to the fact that testing is a critical form of controlling and preventing the transmission of STIs, and if left untreated, STIs may lead to severe consequences.…”

COVID-19 and Romantic Relationships

“…In conclusion, the pandemic brought a decrease in sexual activity for most people (although some notable exceptions were present). This change was present in both the young population and in potential parents, some of whom renounced their parenthood plans [63,64]. Thus, the long-term consequences of this period should also be of particular interest given that they could impact the reproductive habits of the population.…”