Watery intimacy: Advice, strategies, and security considerations
Water sex can be an exciting and intimate experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges and safety concerns. Here's a guide to help you navigate different types of water sex safely.
Pool Sex
Chlorinated pool water can wash away natural lubrication, increasing friction and the risk of chafing, irritation, and infections in genital areas. Sand, dirt, or pool edges may cause additional discomfort or friction burns. Using condoms is critical to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but be aware that water can increase the chance of condom breakage or slippage. Avoid relying on water as a lubricant, and use only water-based lubricants to protect latex condoms from damage.
Hot Tub Sex
Warm water and chemicals in hot tubs can irritate sensitive genital tissues, increasing the risk of infections such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. Heat and chemicals may also temporarily affect fertility in men. Experts recommend avoiding hot tub sex for these reasons, particularly during the summer when infections rise.
Open Water Sex (oceans, lakes, rivers)
Similar to pools, natural water bodies can wash away lubrication and introduce bacteria or irritants, increasing infection risk. Sand, dirt, and aquatic microorganisms present added risk of irritation and infection. Sexual activity on sandy beaches can cause friction burns. Protection with latex condoms (paired with water-based lubricants) and thorough hygiene afterward are important to reduce risks.
Bath Sex
Warm baths are generally safer when avoiding overly hot water, which can irritate skin or mucous membranes. Avoid blowing air into the vagina during pregnancy due to the risk of air embolism. Use water-based lubricants rather than relying on bathwater, and consider hygiene carefully to reduce infection risks. Baths are typically less risky than open water or pools if cleanliness is maintained.
Shower Sex
Similar precautions apply as with baths, but slippery surfaces increase the risk of injury from falls. Use non-slip mats or supports. Water flow may wash away natural lubrication, so supplemental water-based lubricant is advised. Condoms remain important for STI prevention.
General Tips
- Always use latex or nonlatex condoms and water-based lubricants to minimize the risk of breakage and infection.
- Avoid sex if either partner has open sores or cuts to reduce STI transmission risk.
- Thoroughly clean and dry genital areas after water sex to minimize infections.
- Be aware that water can create a false sense of security but does not protect against STIs or pregnancy.
- Avoid substances that cause irritation like oil-based lotions or chemical spermicides in water sex contexts.
- Maintain safety to prevent physical injuries, especially in slippery or uneven environments like showers or natural bodies of water.
Other Considerations
- Never having sex in water if someone feels dizzy, very tired, physically weak, or intoxicated can help ensure safety during water sex.
- Using an anti-slip mat and a grab bar can reduce the risk of falling during shower sex.
- Using a detachable shower head during shower sex can offer extra stimulation and pleasure.
- Removing objects around the tub is recommended during bath sex to prevent them from falling into the water.
- Discussing sexual history and when partners were last tested for STIs can help reduce the risks of water sex.
- A large tub can make it easier for those with painful conditions to move around during bath sex.
- Always using a condom or other contraceptive method can help reduce the risk of getting pregnant or an STI during water sex.
- Sex in open water is the type of water sex with the highest risk, as it can be difficult for pleasurable sex due to strong currents, and people are at a much higher risk of drowning.
- Hot tubs can be pleasurable but may increase the risk of overheating, dehydration, and heart problems for some individuals, and long-term use may damage sperm, undermining fertility.
- Only having sex if all partners consent is a crucial aspect of safe water sex.
- Considering lower-risk alternatives to high-risk water sex, such as pool or shoreline sex, can help lower the risks of water sex.
- Engaging in HIV transmission or contracting other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be a concern for those participating in water sex, so always use protective measures like condoms and water-based lubricants.
- Asthma patients should be cautious during water sex, as the inhalation of chlorine or water can exacerbate their condition.
- Prep (pre-exposure prophylaxis) could be an essential precaution for those regularly engaging in water sex, as it can help prevent HIV transmission.
- Breast cancer survivors may find water sex soothing, but they should consult their healthcare providers about potential risks and suitable precautions.
- Predictive tests for breast cancer can help identify individuals at higher risk, allowing them to take preventive measures and reduce the risks of complications during water sex.
- Colitis, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease patients can experience increased irritation and discomfort during water sex due to the presence of bacteria or chemicals.
- Multiple sclerosis patients should approaches water sex carefully to avoid exacerbating symptoms, such as muscle spasms or fatigue.
- Psoriasis sufferers might find relief in the warm water of a bath, but they need to clean and dry their genital areas thoroughly after to prevent infections.
- Science and health-and-wellness professionals stress the importance of open communication, thorough cleanliness, and considerate planning to ensure safe and satisfying water sex experiences.
- Water sex can be a part of healthy sexual-health practices, but it should not overshadow discussions about contraception, disease prevention, and consent.
