Diving Right into Pool and Hot Tub Sex

Sex in a hot tub or pool is commonly depicted on TV and in movies, but how many of us have actually given it a go?

A lot, according to the 2015 SKYN Condoms Millennial Sex Survey. Of more than 5,000 sexually active millennials, 74 percent have done it in a shower or tub, and 39 percent in a hot tub or pool.

Though it might seem exotic, there are some hygienic (and privacy) concerns about doing the deed in these wild and wet places, so let's dive into the do's and don'ts of hot tub and pool sex.

Safety & legality

This should be obvious, but I'm going to say it anyway: Anyone who can't swim should think twice about having sex in a pool. Pool sex is fun, drowning is not. Be smart and stay safe. Don't engage in pool sex if intoxicated, and be careful not to slip or fall in or around the pool.

Privacy and legality are two other major concerns for pool sex. Don't do it where people can see you because sex in public is illegal; sex in front of others without their consent is a misdemeanor.

Stick to private pools and hot tubs where you can get as steamy as you want without interruptions, or police intervention.

Health risks

Hot tub sex, particularly penetrative sex, does pose infection risks for females. Chlorine from pools can easily kill the good bacteria that keep your vagina healthy, creating an opportunity for bad bacteria to grow unchecked. And if that wasn't enough, the warm water of a heated pool or hot tub that creates such a sensual environment is also a perfect place for bacteria to thrive.

The chlorine and the warm water increase your risk for yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs), and that's a warning for both women and men.

Ironically, sex in water can be a very dry experience. Water washes away the vagina's natural lubrication, increasing friction of penetration and causing microtears in the skin, which are painful and increase the risk for infection.

Remember to use protection as pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) remain concerns. (No, you cannot get pregnant from someone simply ejaculating in water. And before you laugh, you wouldn't believe how many people think that's true.) Keep in mind, condoms will be more prone to breakage or slipping, and they need to be put on before the wearer enters the water.

Additionally, beware of getting dehydrated in hot tubs because it's easy to overheat in that kind of environment. Alcohol doesn't count because it will not hydrate you, so make sure to have nonalcoholic drinks at the ready. If you feel faint or woozy in a hot tub, get out carefully, sit down and see if the feeling passes. Have some water and a banana or a drink with electrolytes.

Pro tips

Counteract vaginal dryness with a thick silicone lubricant that won't easily be washed away. You can also start the fun with nonpenetrative sex in the water and move out onto the deck or another cozy spot to get it on.

Also, consider inviting waterproof, battery-operated friends to the party, as there are many toys available these days that are made to withstand submersion in a pool.

Benefits of pool & hot tub sex

First and foremost, making love in any exotic place is exciting. It's why many people get turned on by outdoor sex. Pool or hot tub sex are great ways to change things up in your love life and keep it exciting!

Even if you're spending a lonely evening on your lonesome, there are always jet streams of water that can provide targeted stimulation—of the clitoris, anus or penis shaft.

Water is buoyant, so you'll find you and your partner can connect in all kinds of different ways and positions. That's a turn-on in itself. Also, if you happen to suffer from any kind of joint or musculoskeletal pain, the increased mobility in water can be particularly helpful for those positions that can be tricky on land.

A word of warning, though: The heat of hot tubs or a heated pool can significantly increase the time it'll take for you to climax, so set your expectations accordingly.