Is it Safe to Have Sex Underwater?

Underwater sex sounds like a made-for-the-screens dream. But, is it actually safe to have sex in water?

It can be, but it’s important to take the same precautions you would on dry land. This includes using a barrier method of contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STIs. You’ll also want to make sure you have a good lubricant.

Condoms

While water sex sounds pretty epic, and it certainly looks that way on the movie screen, it’s not necessarily as safe as it might seem. First, there’s the issue of germs. Body water—especially chlorinated pools and hot tubs—can contain some pretty nasty bacteria. That’s not to mention the fact that water sex can increase your risk for yeast infections because it washes away your natural vaginal lubrication.

Plus, if you’re planning on doing any penetration, it’s important to use a silicone-based lubricant (such as Move, Uberlube, or System Jo) before going down under because the chlorine can cause rashes and irritation. You should also find a private spot in the pool so you don’t have to worry about people walking by and seeing you, as well as to avoid any potential suction issues caused by being underwater.

As for condoms, they may still be effective in the water but it’s harder to put them on correctly and they’re more likely to break, loosen or slip off. In addition, if you’re using a barrier method to prevent pregnancy or STIs, such as the pill or an IUD, it won’t be as effective in the water. Still, if you’re up for it, go for it! It’s totally doable as long as you take the proper precautions. (Just be sure to wear a bathing suit.)

Lube

Whether in the pool or the ocean, many sex scenes in movies and TV shows feature steamy couples romping in bodies of water. While it may sound erotic and romantic, there are some risks involved with water sex, especially during penetration.

In the case of penetrative sex in a body of water, the friction caused by the water can increase the likelihood of infection from bacteria like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and HPV. The semen from a man could also get into the woman’s vagina, which can cause an infection called vulva chlamydia (VCC).

Water does not act as lubricant and only makes friction worse, says Figueroa. Using a waterproof lubricant can help reduce the friction. However, water can wash off both the natural lubrication in a woman’s vagina and store-bought lube.

For the best results during water sex, use a silicone-based lube that won’t wash away. This type of lube can withstand the temperature of a bath or Jacuzzi and is more effective than a water-based lubricant. The lube should be squirted on the skin to warm it up and then reapplied after a few minutes of contact. For a smoother experience, it’s also important to find a private area or body of water where people can swim freely. This way, they can enjoy the experience without worrying about their surroundings or other people invading their privacy.

Safety

Sex in the water is romanticized in so many steamy movie scenes, and it can feel pretty sexy to explore new sexual positions with your partner while floating in a warm body of water. However, it’s important to remember that sex in water comes with the same risks as sex on dry land and that it’s best to take your safety seriously.

A major risk of underwater sex is the potential for infections, particularly vaginal inflammation and urinary tract infections. This is because, as we all know, public bodies of water are typically dirty and contain a high level of bacteria that can cause irritation and infection. And, as you may already know, sex in water can also lead to friction that increases your risk of STIs.

Finally, it’s important to remember that water isn’t a natural lubricant. In fact, it can be quite the opposite and can actually make things more uncomfortable or even painful for both partners during sex in the water. This is because water washes away the woman’s natural lubrication, and adding extra lube won’t help as it will just wash right off again.

Additionally, water isn’t a good lubricant for men, and it can actually increase the risk of STIs if used during sex in the water. This, as well as the fact that the water can wash away store-bought lube, can make having sex in the water a dangerous experience for both men and women.

Tips

While having sex in the water might be a fantasy that’s been fueled by steamy movies, it’s not as easy as it looks. Whether it’s in the bathtub, a hot tub or off the coast of an oddly clear lake, underwater sex requires some serious maneuvering and balance. And it’s definitely not a good idea if you’re already dizzy, tired or inebriated.

Another important tip is to always use protection during sex in the water, whether it’s with a partner or a sex toy. Chlorine in pool water can weaken condoms, and if they break, it’s possible to get an STI. Also, sex in the ocean poses other risks such as drowning and sea creatures that could cause parasitic infections.

Water is not a good lubricant and can lead to abrasions and irritation of the vulva, especially when it’s chlorinated or ozonated. It can also wash away the natural lubricant that’s in the body, increasing the risk of UTIs and yeast infections.

While having sex in the ocean can be exhilarating and sensual, it’s not a good idea to venture too far out into the open water, even if you and your partner are strong swimmers. Drowning is a serious risk, and the currents can make it difficult to swim back to shore if you or your partner falls in.