The disruptive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual behavior of a German-speaking population()

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate changes in sexual behavior during of the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing measures in single and partnered participants in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants were assessed in a cross-sectional online survey. Amongst others, sociodemographic data, sociosexual attitudes as well as engagement in a range of sexual activities and practices prior to and during the pandemic were collected. Additionally, for subjects in a relationship, sexual attraction to the partner (feelings of affection during partnered sexual activities, and physical sexual attraction) and relationship satisfaction were measured. RESULTS: Data of 1017 single and 1498 partnered participants were analyzed. Partnered participants masturbated significantly less during physical distancing measures compared to the period before, whereas single males masturbated more often. Single females masturbate less frequently but this difference was not statistically significant. For both subgroups, the frequency of most sexual activities significantly declined since the beginning of physical distancing measures with anal intercourse in partnered participants being the only exception that showed no significant decrease. In the group of participants in relationships, sociosexual variables and physical sexual attraction to one's partner showed a significant positive relationship to the number of new sexual practices added during physical distancing measures, while feelings of affection during partnered sexual activities and relationship satisfaction did not. CONCLUSION: Our data support previous findings showing potential disruptive effects on sexual routines of single and partnered participants by the COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing measures. Further studies are needed to reveal causal factors and to study long-term effects on mental health and relationships.