Contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from a hot tub is unlikely. The hot tub environment, with its water chemistry and temperature, is not conducive for pathogen survival.
How STIs Spread
Sexually transmitted infections spread through direct contact with bodily fluids (e.g., semen, vaginal fluids, blood) during sexual activity. Some STIs, like herpes and HPV, also spread through skin-to-skin contact. These pathogens are fragile and cannot survive long outside the human body or in harsh environments.
The conditions within a properly maintained hot tub, including high temperatures and the presence of disinfectants like chlorine or bromine, are inhospitable to STI-causing bacteria and viruses. Chlorine can kill most STI-causing bacteria and viruses within minutes. The significant dilution of any potential pathogens in the large volume of water further reduces the risk of transmission.
Common Hot Tub-Related Infections
While STIs are not a concern in hot tubs, other infections can occur if the water is not properly maintained. “Hot tub rash,” or folliculitis, is a common skin infection caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This rash appears as itchy, red, bumpy, or pus-filled blisters around hair follicles, especially where swimsuits hold contaminated water against the skin.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also be linked to hot tub use, often caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Respiratory issues like Legionnaires’ disease or Pontiac fever can arise from inhaling aerosols or mist containing Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water. Cryptosporidium is a chlorine-resistant parasite that can cause severe diarrhea if contaminated water is swallowed.
Practicing Hot Tub Safety
Several safety measures are recommended to minimize hot tub-related infection risks. Showering with soap before and after using a hot tub helps remove bacteria and chemicals from the skin and prevents the introduction of contaminants into the water. Ensure the hot tub’s water chemistry is correctly balanced, with chlorine levels of at least 3 ppm or bromine levels of 4–8 ppm, and a pH between 7.0 and 7.8.
Before entering, visually inspect the water for clarity and absence of strong chemical odors, indicating poor maintenance. Avoid swallowing hot tub water, a common way to contract waterborne illnesses like Cryptosporidium. Limiting immersion time, especially for children, and avoiding hot tub use if you have open wounds or are experiencing diarrhea, further reduces the risk of infection.