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Guide to Birth Control and Safe Water Sex

By Dawn Stacey M.Ed, LMHC, About.com

Updated: February 12, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Meredith Shur, MD

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Having Sex Under Water

Having Sex Under Water Photo

Courtesy of Microsoft Online
When traveling in romantic places with your partner, some couples may have the urge to get a little "adventurous." Exotic and tropical landscapes, hidden waterfall lagoons, lavish hotel suites with Jacuzzi’s built for two, or private pool loggias can all be tempting places to experiment with the art of lovemaking. Keep in mind that if a woman is on a hormonal method of birth control or if one of the two of you have not had a vasectomy or tubal ligation, you need to be prepared if this possibility presents itself.

I hate to be the “party pooper,” but I must also go on record and remind you that having sexual intercourse in public places, such as the beach, a public swimming pool, a swimming hole or lake, etc., is illegal.

Finally, although the idea sounds romantic and sensual, underwater sex is not the smartest choice. For starters, sexually transmitted infections and HIV can still be spread while having sex in the water; this is even true of hot tubs. This means that it is important to use birth control during water sex that can provide STD protection

Latex condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy and STDs but may be somewhat risky to use during underwater sex, regardless of whether or not you are in a chlorinated pool, cold or warm water, or the ocean. If you plan to use this form of contraception, be aware of some important information about condoms and water sex. This includes the lack of research, condom interactions with chemicals and heat, lubrication, and additional complications like putting the condom on and the possibility of it slipping off.

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