Okay, I had no idea about this, so I will need to think about this. Also, I can almost only have my bird out in my room, but he stays downstairs. I always have to cover his wings and body when carrying him upstairs. Would that be out of the question? I don’t know if i need to change my routine and I need to get this cleared up.
I kind of agree with
@Leih here... but it can also depend on the bird.
My 18 year old cockatiel actually allows me to place my hand over her back and tolerates me grabbing her and picking her up. She doesn't become hormonal or think it's sexy time because of this. I don't stroke her back, mind you! Just more like 'cradling' her. I don't do this with *any* other cockatiel unless I need to physically restrain them. For her though, not an issue... and she does occasionally lay eggs!
My 25 year old mitred conure is even more hands on... although usually if I have him on my chest for scritches, I actually lay him on his back on my chest, then 'cradle' his stomach/feet. He also lays on his back on the palm of my hand and I gently toss him in the air. Again, does not encourage hormones, and I'm not petting him there. (although he would very much like it if I did, particularly under the wings!)
Some birds though can go into "sexy mode" even just by petting their heads! In this case, best to be hands off! I even "met" a cockatoo that went into "sexy mode" just by giving her *VERBAL* attention! I felt terrible for her...