Can Hot Tub Use Spread STDs and Impact Fertility? 

1) Is it safe to have sex in a hot tub?

The short answer? Not really…

Dr Rashid Bani, private GP and Medical Director at Your Sexual Health told Platinum Spas,

“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.”

He adds, “Women, in particular, may experience redness or itching afterwards, even if everything feels fine at the time!”

Instead, he suggests saving intimacy for dry land: “Think of the hot tub as a relaxing prelude to intimacy – not the main event.”

2) Can you catch an STD in a hot tub?

Here’s the good news: You’re not going to get chlamydia from sharing bubbles.

According to Dr. Bani, the idea that you can catch an STI just by sharing a hot tub is nothing more than a myth – which is great news for anyone planning to get busy this summer!

“STIs don’t survive long outside the body, especially in properly maintained chlorinated water. If the hot tub is cleaned and treated correctly, the risk of catching an STI this way is virtually zero.”

What about herpes?

This is another one that causes confusion. But don’t panic – you can’t pick up herpes from a quick soak.

“Herpes is only spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity,” Dr. Bani explains. “Just sitting in the same hot tub won’t do it – but engaging in sexual contact in that setting could still lead to transmission.”

3) Can you get thrush or a UTI from a hot tub?

Unfortunately, this one’s a yes – especially for women.

Whilst hot tubs don’t directly cause thrush or UTIs, but they can increase the risk – especially if the water’s not well looked after or if you stay in for too long.

“The warm, moist environment of a hot tub is ideal for yeast growth, which can throw off the vagina’s natural pH and trigger thrush,” explains Dr. Bani. “And bacteria like E. coli can potentially cause UTIs if the chemical balance is off.”

His advice? Always change out of wet swimwear quickly and urinate soon after soaking to reduce the risk of painful infections.

4) Can hot tubs affect fertility?

Not permanently, but they can have short-term effects – particularly for men.

“High heat isn’t ideal for sperm,” says Dr. Bani. “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. But it is reversible after a short break from heat exposure.”

For women, the concern is less about fertility and more about overheating, particularly in early pregnancy. 

“Hydration and shorter soak times are key.” He adds, “If you’re trying to conceive, it’s best to limit soak times, avoid very hot temperatures, and stay well hydrated whilst in the tub just to be safe.”

5) So, are hot tubs safe?

When used sensibly, yes! 

“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.”

So if you’ve been side-eyeing your spa days or wondering whether a steamy dip is doing more harm than good, you don’t need to worry. While they’re perhaps not the place for a rom-com-style sex scene (sorry to ruin the fantasy!), they are still the perfect setting for a little R&R, connecting with your partner, or a solo unwind after a long day.

Just remember – proper water care is key to a safe soak. For tips on keeping your hot tub clean and bacteria-free, check out this guide to hot tub maintenance.