With summer in full swing, hot tubs are a popular choice for relaxation, but a leading UK hot tub brand, Platinum Spas, and medical expert Dr Rashid Bani, private GP and medical director at Your Sexual Health, are urging caution. Dr Bani, with over 20 years of experience, has debunked common hot tub health myths, particularly around sexual activity, to ensure safe soaking. His insights address concerns like STIs, UTIs, fertility risks, and hygiene, backed by hundreds of monthly Google searches on these topics.
Key health risks of hot tub sex
Dr Bani highlights several risks associated with sexual activity in hot tubs:
- Irritation and unreliable condoms. “While it might sound exciting, having sex in a hot tub comes with some health risks that people often overlook,” says Dr Bani. “Chemicals like chlorine and bromine can irritate the genitals, and condoms are much less reliable in water. They can slip off or tear more easily.” Women may experience redness or itching post-soak, even if symptoms are not immediate.
- Increased risk of infections. The warm, moist environment of a hot tub can promote yeast growth, disrupting vaginal pH and potentially causing thrush. Poorly maintained water may also harbour bacteria like E. coli, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Dr Bani advises changing out of wet swimwear quickly and urinating after soaking to reduce these risks.
- Temporary fertility concerns for men. “High heat isn’t ideal for sperm,” Dr Bani explains. “Sperm function can temporarily drop when exposed to temperatures above their preferred range, around 32–35°C. Since hot tubs average around 37–40°C, soaking too long or too often may impact sperm count or motility.” This effect is reversible with a break from heat exposure. For women, overheating, especially in early pregnancy, is a concern, so shorter soak times and hydration are essential.
Debunking STI myths
Fears about catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in hot tubs are largely unfounded. “STIs don’t survive long outside the body, especially in properly maintained chlorinated water,” Dr Bani states. “If the hot tub is cleaned and treated correctly, the risk of catching an STI this way is virtually zero.” Similarly, herpes transmission requires direct skin-to-skin contact, not just sharing a hot tub. But sexual activity in a hot tub could still transmit STIs, so caution is advised.
Safe hot tub use
Hot tubs remain a safe and relaxing option when used sensibly. “Hot tubs aren’t dangerous to your health when they’re well maintained and used in moderation,” Dr Bani confirms. “In fact, the stress relief they provide can be a real benefit.” Proper maintenance, including regular water treatment and cleaning, is crucial to prevent bacterial growth. Platinum Spas offers a detailed guide to hot tub maintenance to ensure a safe experience.
Expert tips for safe soaking
Dr Bani recommends limiting soak times, avoiding very high temperatures, and staying hydrated, especially for those trying to conceive. He suggests treating hot tubs as a prelude to intimacy rather than the setting for it. For hygiene, showering before and after soaking and ensuring proper water chemistry can minimise health risks.