As we’ve bunkered down for self-isolation amid the coronavirus outbreak, it’s been well-publicised that some products have been in high demand – toilet paper, tinned and dried goods, and hand sanitiser being the most obvious examples. But now condom brands are also reporting a spike in sales. 

US brand Promescent has reported a 54 per cent increase in their online sales for condoms since March 5. “In times of uncertainty and isolation, it’s natural to seek physical and emotional intimacy,” commented Promescent CEO Jeff Abraham, adding that condoms aren’t the only product they’re selling more of. Their Arousal Gel is up 78 per cent since March 5, their Climax Delay Spray sales 42 per cent, and lubricant is up 35 per cent. 

Pharmacies in Delhi, India, have also reported an increase in condom sales, according to the Hindustan Times, and last month Reuters reported that Chinese retailers had seen a rise. Meanwhile, Dazed has reported on a spike in sales of sex toys among those looking to entertain themselves in isolation, and Pornhub has today revealed that they’re offering free premium porn to the world, as data shows that we’re now watching more of it.

Condom or no condom, earlier this week, a UK government spokesperson issued advice about whether sex is safe in the age of a pandemic: “If you or your partner are self-isolating because one of you have symptoms (cough or fever) then providing you live together you do not necessarily need to give up sex for the seven-day period recommended for individual cases to self-isolate,” said Professor Paul Hunter, according to Sky News. 

He continued: “However, if your partner is in one of the vulnerable groups because of age, pre-existing disease, or she is pregnant, then you need to stay away from them as much as possible, and this would mean avoid sex for the first seven days.”

To promote safe sex during COVID-19, Promescent is giving away 250,000 free condoms to customers via their website.