Sex in the water can be fun and intimate. However, it may also present challenges and safety concerns. While there is no correct way to have sex in water, there are potential issues.

While in water, people should be aware of potential injury or damage from slipping, falling, or drowning. Those who have sex in water are also at risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while there is a higher risk of vaginal irritation and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

People should practice safer sex and use waterproof contraception, such as birth control pills or IUDs. Condoms may still be effective in water, but they are more likely to break, loosen, or slip off. People should also be conscious of any legal problems from having sex in public.

Some people may choose to have sex in water, as it can help ease mobility issues or joint pain. It may also offer more pleasurable sex that may not be possible out of the water.

This article explores the safety concerns of sex in water. It also provides suggestions for making it safer and more enjoyable.

A bikini top floating in a pool, possibly because people have had sex in the pool water.Share on Pinterest
Having sex in water can be fun, but it may present safety concerns, such as drowning.

Pool sex offers plenty of variety as there is generally more space to move. However, the risk of drowning is higher, particularly if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Sex in a public pool may also expose people to legal issues, such as public indecency charges.

To enjoy pool sex, people should follow these tips:

  • Only have sex in a private pool with the owner’s permission. Make sure the pool is not visible to others.
  • Never have pool sex when drunk or otherwise under the influence.
  • Try using pool features, such as steps, to get into a more comfortable position.
  • Be mindful of the drying effects of chlorine. This chemical can irritate the skin, while people may need to use a lubricant.
  • Avoid sex that involves a person’s head going underwater. For example, it can be dangerous if a person wraps their legs around a partner who is performing oral sex.

Hot tubs can be pleasurable, especially on a cold night. However, it is easy for a person to overheat in hot water, and they might not notice how much they sweat. For people with certain conditions, such as heart disease, hot tubs may increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat. Pregnant females should also not have sex in hot tubs.

A 2014 study shows that long-term use of saunas and hot tubs may damage sperm, undermining fertility. Because of this, couples who are trying to get pregnant should consider avoiding hot tub sex, especially in hot water.

People should follow the below precautions on hot tub sex:

  • Take water breaks to prevent dehydration.
  • Check and turn down the hot tub temperature during intense sex.
  • Avoid hot tub sex when either partner is drunk or under the influence of drugs.
  • Pay attention to signs of overheating and heat exhaustion. People should leave the water if they develop a rapid heart rate, dizziness, or intense fatigue.

Sex in open water is the type of water sex with the highest risk. Strong currents can make it difficult for pleasurable sex, and people are at a much higher risk of drowning. Open water may also contain parasites, which could cause water-related diseases.

This type of water may also be public property, exposing the couple to public indecency or similar charges.

To reduce the risk and enjoy sex in open water, people should:

  • Avoid sex in deep water. They can have sex on the shore, where it is easy to find a good position, and the risk of drowning is lower.
  • Consider having sex on a float or raft, instead of in the water.
  • Know who owns the property near the water, and get their permission first.
  • Let someone know where they will be, to prevent people from becoming lost if the current becomes too strong.

Bath sex offers the comfort and pleasure of water, but with a reduced risk of slipping that shower sex poses. Some people find warm bathwater relaxing, and a full tub can make it easier for those with painful conditions to move around. However, a large tub of water can pose a drowning risk, so partners must ensure they are sober and can easily get in and out of the bath.

People can try these tips for bath sex:

  • having sex in a large tub for easier movement
  • using a grab bar to ease into a comfortable position
  • removing objects around the tub, as they may fall into the water
  • adding bath oils for a more intimate and pleasurable experience

Many people find running water relaxing or erotic. Shower sex also presents a lower risk of drowning because there is no deep pool. However, there are still risks, especially if someone falls or is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. To get the most out of shower sex, people can try:

  • having sex in a shower with an anti-slip mat and a grab bar, to reduce the risk of falling
  • avoiding the use of slippery oils, as they may increase slipping
  • using a double shower head so that all partners can stand in warm water
  • using a detachable shower head for extra stimulation and pleasure

It is a myth that people cannot get pregnant or get an STI in water. Water does not wash away semen, vaginal fluids, or other bodily fluids. Even in chlorinated water, it is possible to get pregnant or contract an STI.

These tips can reduce the risks of water sex:

  • Always use a condom or other contraceptive method to reduce the risk of getting pregnant or an STI.
  • Discuss sexual history and when partners were last tested for STIs.
  • Use a silicone-based lubricant to prevent dryness and irritation.
  • Only have sex when all partners have discussed their risk factors for drowning, fainting, cardiovascular health issues, falling, and other concerns.
  • Consider choosing a lower-risk alternative to high-risk water sex. For example, people can have sex in a pool or on the shoreline, instead of in the ocean.
  • Never have sex in water if someone feels dizzy, very tired, physically weak, or intoxicated.
  • Only have sex if all partners consent.

Water sex can be fun and may help with mobility. As with any other sex act, it requires communication so all partners can be safe and enjoy the experience.

All partners should be aware of the risks involved in the type of sex they plan to have, and the potential for injury, STIs, or UTIs. Ideally, people should avoid high-risk sex, but if they decide to engage in this activity, they should prepare a safety plan to help lower the risks.