Summer sex smarts

Having sex underwater can cause your uterus to explode.

Myth- It's tricky to find the origins of this urban myth, but the good news is that it's not true. "Physically, there's no way that this could happen," says Dr. Iris Greenwald, a general practitioner in Richmond Hill, Ont. Your cervix, located at the top of your vagina, serves to protect your uterus - a job it takes very seriously. This doesn't mean that getting it on underwater is a good idea, though - in fact, experts recommend against it. Possible perils include shrinkage from the cold (him) and the rinsing away of natural lubricants (you), which can result in some very uncomfortable sex. You're also risking vaginal irritation from bacteria in the water or chlorine if you're in a pool or hot tub. Plus, if you're using a condom, water can wash away any spermicide (making it less effective) and seep inside the condom (increasing the risk that it will slip off). The bottom line Stick to underwater antics for foreplay and hit dry land for the rest.

Hanging out by the pool can cause a yeast infection.

Fact- It's not the "hanging out" part that can cause a yeast infection; it's what you're wearing that's the culprit. "A wet bathing suit is the perfect breeding ground for yeast," says Greenwald. "Bacteria thrive in warm, moist environments." The lack of breathability in most bathing suit materials clinches the deal - and soon you've got an ideal place for yeast to multiply madly. A happy day by the water can quickly turn into itching, discharge and irritation. The bottom line Opt for a bikini over a one-piece - that way, you can bring two suit bottoms with you and switch back and forth - or throw on a sarong while your suit dries in the sun.

Your risk of a sexually transmitted infection increases in the summer.

Myth- For some women, long walks on the beach and soaring summer temperatures lead to an increase in sexual activity. And if that's the case, says Greenwald, your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can increase as well. The stats are hard to gather on this, though, because many STIs aren't caught and treated right away (chlamydia, for example, is completely asymptomatic in 70 to 80 percent of women, so you won't even know you have it until you go to your doctor and get screened). The bottom line No matter what season it is, always use a condom. And be sure to ask your doctor for a full STI screening when you go for your annual exam.

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