From horror stories about infections and rashes to romanticized hot tub trysts on shows like Riverdale , you've likely encountered a lot of conflicting information about whether or not it is safe to have sex in a pool or hot tub. In an effort to set the record straight, I asked two experts to help clarify the myths and truths about underwater sex. The answer to the safety question is more nuanced than a simple yes or no, but if you do choose to get intimate in a pool or hot tub, there are certain precautions you should take and potential risks to be aware of.
Megan Stubbs, a board-certified sexologist with degrees in biology and human sexuality, says some sexual activities are safe for pools and hot tubs, but not all. Here's what else you need to know about the downsides and possible dangers of having sex in water.
It's a known fact that latex is susceptible to weakening from extreme hot and cold temperatures, so the heat of the water in a hot tub could compromise a condom's effectiveness, according to Stubbs. Having sex in water also doesn't decrease your chance of getting pregnant. Yes — contrary to what you might think, having sex in water actually hinders your natural lubrication, which can lead to more painful sex.
Richardson explains that harsh chemicals such as chlorine can also dry you out and make intercourse painful. If you do hook up in a pool or hot tub and experience dryness or discomfort afterwards, she recommends using a vaginal moisturizer such as Replens to rehydrate the vaginal tissue.
If you already have a yeast infection, a hot tub will likely make it worse. Additionally, the chances of getting a UTI, yeast infection, or bacterial vaginosis increase when you have penetrative sex in water, according to Stubbs. Pretty much any time you introduce a foreign substance into your vagina or urethra, you risk upsetting the pH, which can result in the aforementioned conditions.
