HOT AND HEAVY
Is it safe to have sex in a hot tub? Health and hygiene risks explained
HOT tub sex is a common wish-list fantasy for many couples but the act comes with a list of risks you might want to consider before taking the plunge.
Getting down and dirty in the bubbles might seem like a good idea but it's not as safe as you might think.
1
Is sex in a hot tub safe?
Having sex in water can be a fun way to explore intimacy with your partner.
It looks very appealing and sexy on TV shows and in movies but can come with some downsides.
Just like public swimming pools, hot tubs aren't famed for having the cleanest water, and microbes or chemicals in the water can lead to infections.
Gynaecologists have warned of the potential risks of frolicking in bodies of water, such as irregular heart rhythms and potentially slipping and falling.
What are the risks of having sex in a hot tub?
You could get a rash
You could get a rash from staying in a hot tub longer than you are supposed to.
This type of rash is called pseudomonas folliculitis – aka hot tub rash.
It appears as red, itchy bumps and develops due to the bacteria in the water.
It is not serious, nor does it have long-term side effects, but it is probably best to avoid it if you can.
Women could develop a UTI or yeast infection
For those who have vaginas, it is important to be careful when having sex in water to avoid the risk of infections.
The pH of a vagina is a delicate balance and the smallest thing can upset them.
The chemicals and bacteria found in a hot tub can lead to a host of frustrating conditions for lady parts and a urinary tract infection or a yeast infection could occur after a romp in the hot tub.
Condoms won’t be as effective
This is probably the biggest risk of hot tub sex.
Condoms may not stay put when used in water as the chlorine used in the maintenance of the hot tub can make the condom less effective - even if it does stay where it is meant to.
Condoms are also more likely to break when used in water.
If you are still keen to have sex in a hot tub, you and your partner may want to discuss the benefits of waterproof contraception.
These include:
Just remember that these will protect against pregnancy but not against sexually transmitted infections.
Women may get sore
The natural lubrication from the body is less effective when you're submerged in water.
This could make the sexual encounter less enjoyable for the person being penetrated.
You could contract an STI
Many believe that the chemicals present in a hot tub help to keep any STIs you or your partner may have at bay.
Unfortunately, this is simply untrue.
Wearing a condom is the safest way to ensure you don't pass anything on to your partner, and vice versa.
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