7 Surprising Facts About Hot Tub Yeast Infections

What is a hot tub yeast infection, and how can you eliminate it? This article explains everything you need to know about this fungal infection and how to keep your vagina healthy.

Yeast infections are common and uncomfortable fungal infections that affect the vagina and the vulva. They are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida albicans fungus, usually in small amounts in the body. Yeast infections can cause symptoms such as itching, burning, irritation, discharge, and pain.

You may think that soaking in a hot tub can help you relax and soothe your symptoms, but did you know that it can also increase your risk of getting or spreading a yeast infection? Here are some surprising facts about hot tub yeast infections you should know.

1. Hot tubs can create a favorable environment for yeast growth. 

Hot tubs can increase the risk of yeast infection by creating a warm and moist environment for the yeast to grow. 

The high temperature of the water can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in your vagina, making it easier for Candida to overgrow. 

Women prone to getting yeast infections should avoid hot tubs and hot soaking baths and opt for showers.

2. Hot tub yeast infections can be contagious

Yeast infections are not considered sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but they can be transferred from one person to another through sexual contact. About 15 percent of men will experience symptoms of penile yeast infection after having sex with an infected female partner. 

If both partners are female, passing a yeast infection from one partner to another is possible, though more research is needed to confirm this. A man with a penile yeast infection can also transmit his infection to a female partner through sexual contact. 

Oral sex with a person with a vaginal or penile yeast infection can also result in thrush, an overgrowth of Candida in the mouth.

3. Hot tub sex can make yeast infections worse

While you may think having sex in a hot tub can be fun and romantic, it can also be hazardous if you or your partner have a yeast infection. The conditions of sex in a water environment can make it easier for a yeast infection to spread through sex. 

Sex with penetration from a penis or a sex toy can also irritate the inflammation, disrupt any creams or medications you use to treat your infection, and prolong your recovery. 

If you have a yeast infection, it is best to avoid sexual intimacy in a bath or hot tub until you are fully cured.

4. Hot tubs can expose you to other germs and chemicals

Hot tubs are a potential source of yeast infections and other infections and irritations. Hot tubs can harbor bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that can cause skin rashes, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, and more. 

Hot tubs can also contain chlorine and bromine that irritate your skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. To reduce exposure to these harmful agents, use a well-maintained and sanitized hot tub, shower before and after, and limit your soaking time to 10 minutes.

5. Hot tubs can affect your pregnancy

If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, you may want to avoid using hot tubs altogether. Hot tubs can raise your body temperature to unsafe levels for your developing baby. 

High body temperature in early pregnancy can increase the risk of congenital disabilities such as neural tube defects. Hot tubs can also affect your fertility by altering your ovulation cycle and reducing the quality and quantity of your cervical mucus.

If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, talk to your doctor before using a hot tub.

6. Hot tubs can worsen your diabetes

If you have diabetes, you may also want to be careful about using hot tubs. Hot tubs can lower your blood pressure and increase your heart rate, affecting your blood sugar levels. 

Hot tubs can also impair your ability to sense pain or temperature changes in your feet and legs, leading to injuries or infections that may go unnoticed. 

If you have diabetes, check with your doctor before using a hot tub, monitor your blood sugar levels closely, and inspect your feet and legs regularly for any signs of damage.

7. Hot tubs can interfere with some medications

Some medications may interact with hot tub use and cause unwanted side effects. For example, some antibiotics may make you more sensitive to sunlight and heat, increasing your risk of sunburn or heatstroke when using a hot tub. 

Some antidepressants may lower your blood pressure too much when combined with hot tub use, which can cause dizziness or fainting. Some antihistamines may make you drowsy or impair your judgment when using a hot tub, increasing your risk of accidents or injuries. 

[wps_alert type=”warning”]If you take any medications, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using a hot tub.[/wps_alert]

Conclusion 

Hot tubs can be relaxing and enjoyable, but they can also pose some health risks, especially if you have a yeast infection or are prone to getting one. To prevent or treat a hot tub yeast infection, follow these tips:

• Avoid using hot tubs if you have a yeast infection or are at risk of getting one
• Change out of your wet bathing suit right away after using a hot tub
• Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories to treat your yeast infection
• See your doctor if your symptoms are severe, recurrent, or caused by a less common type of fungus
• Practice safe sex and use condoms or dental dams to prevent spreading or contracting a yeast infection
• Keep your hot tub clean and sanitized, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and use
• Limit your hot tub time to 10 minutes or less, and avoid using it in scorching weather
• Shower before and after using a hot tub, and dry yourself thoroughly
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or caffeine when using a hot tub
• Check with your doctor before using a hot tub if you are pregnant, have diabetes, or take any medications
• By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a hot tub without compromising your health.

For additional information, visit Hot Tub Patio, or if you’re interested in more reading, see Guides and Reviews.

FAQs:

Q: Home remedies for yeast infections? Try plain yogurt, boric acid suppositories, oregano/coconut/tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, or vitamin C supplements. Consult a doctor before trying.

Q: Can swimming in a pool cause yeast infections? Swimming alone won’t cause it, but improper hygiene and wet bathing suits may increase the risk. Rinse before/after swimming, change promptly, wear breathable clothing, avoid douching/scented products, and treat existing infections.

Q: How long does it take to cure a yeast infection? Depends on severity and treatment. Usually, 1 to 7 days with OTC creams or one-dose oral meds. Recurrent infections need longer treatment. See a doctor if there is no improvement in 7 days or recurrent within 2 months.

Q: What causes a yeast infection? Yeast infections can be caused by antibiotic use, pregnancy, diabetes, hormonal changes, immune system disorders, stress, poor hygiene, tight clothing, and douching.

Q: How can I prevent a yeast infection? To prevent yeast infections, practice good hygiene, wear breathable clothing, avoid douching and scented products, eat yogurt or probiotics, control diabetes, and practice safe sex.

Q: How can I treat a yeast infection? Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories can treat a yeast infection. Oral antifungal medications are also available but may require a prescription. Consult a doctor for severe or recurrent infections.

Q: When should I see a doctor for a yeast infection? See a doctor if you are unsure about the infection, symptoms persist after OTC treatment, you have frequent infections, or you experience severe symptoms, especially during pregnancy, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

Q: Can I use a hot tub with a yeast infection? Avoid using a hot tub during a yeast infection, as it may worsen symptoms and increase the risk of spreading the infection. Wait until fully cured before using a hot tub.