Are Golden Showers Safe?

  By

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases.

A golden shower faucetWhen it comes to kinks and fetishes, few topics raise as many questions as golden showers (or water sports, as it’s often called). While the idea may seem unusual to some, the truth is they can be safe with the right precautions. As a sexologist with over 10 years of experience, I’ve heard it all. And yes, I’m here to answer the questions, address the concerns, and help you explore this kink if you want to.

Spoiler: So, are golden showers safe? The short answer is yes, but only with careful precautions that I discuss in detail below.

What Exactly Are Golden Showers?

Golden showers involve urination as part of sexual play. Whether it’s for intimacy, submission, dominance, or just curiosity, this is about consensual exploration. And before you ask—yes, it’s normal to wonder about it! Human sexuality is a broad spectrum and the beauty is in knowing what works for you and your partner.

Is It Safe?

The million-dollar question! The short answer is yes, but only with careful precautions. Urine has always been thought to be sterile when it leaves the body but recent studies have shown it does contain bacteria. For most people, these bacteria won’t harm you but certain health conditions like UTIs or STIs can increase the risk. Transparency about health is key.

Also, don’t touch urine if you have open cuts, sores, or mucous membranes involved as bacteria can cause infections. If you or your partner have compromised immune systems or specific health concerns, it’s probably a good idea to consult with a doctor first.

Awareness, communication, and hygiene are the key (like always). If both partners are informed and comfortable the risks can be reduced. Take the time to prepare and clean up and this will be a good experience.

Setting the Scene: Consent and Communication

Every good sexual experience starts with clear communication and golden showers are no exception. Sit down with your partner, maybe over coffee or in a relaxed setting, and talk openly. Share your curiosities, limits, and any reservations. If your partner isn’t comfortable, respect that boundary. Trust me, forcing it won’t make it sexy (plus it’s illegal too).

A long-time reader once told me she brought it up by saying, “I read this article about golden showers. Have you ever thought about trying it?” That one question opened up a conversation she’d been avoiding for years. Sometimes all it takes is a little nudge.

Practical First Steps

If you’re new to the idea of golden showers start small. Try it in a non-sexual context first, like showering together, to see how you feel. This low-pressure approach will help you and your partner ease into the idea without feeling overwhelmed. Taking it one step at a time will allow you to test boundaries and develop a mutual understanding. Here are some more steps you can follow:

  1. Start Slow: Dip your toes in before diving in. Experiment in nonsexual settings to build up comfort.
  2. Hydrate: Encourage both partners to drink plenty of water beforehand.
  3. Choose the Right Space: Bathrooms and showers are easiest for cleanup.
  4. Talk About It: Revisit the conversation after your first time. What worked? What didn’t?
  5. Respect Boundaries: If either partner feels uncomfortable stop immediately.

If you or your partner are not comfortable using actual urine there are other options to consider. Using water dyed with food coloring can simulate the experience without the commitment. This way you can role-play and ease into the idea of golden showers.

Hygiene is Everything

Here’s the deal: You’ll need to plan ahead as golden showers aren’t something you spring on someone. Bathrooms are ideal because cleanup is easier but a shower or bathtub will do. Lay down towels and have a trash bag or bucket nearby for anything that needs to be disposed of immediately.

Aftercare is just as important. Wash up thoroughly afterwards even if it was contained to a specific area of the body. Warm water and soap are your best friends here. And let’s not forget—hydration matters! Drinking water will dilute urine making it less pungent and more palatable if taste is a concern.

Psychological Safety

For many the idea of incorporating urine into play feels taboo or even shameful. That’s normal—society has been teaching us to avoid bodily fluids our whole lives. But remember kinks thrive on trust and mutual excitement. If you’re unsure how you’ll feel afterward take baby steps. Try nonsexual experimentation like urinating in the shower together to see how you feel.

If your partner is hesitant about golden showers you need to approach the topic with empathy and understanding. Ask open-ended questions like “What makes you uncomfortable about this?” or “Is there a way we can do this that feels okay for you?” Listen without judgment and validate their feelings and you’ll create a safe space for conversation. Sometimes just having the conversation is a win even if the activity doesn’t happen.

For people with physical disabilities or unique needs, golden showers can still be explored with some adjustments. Discuss with your partner what adjustments can be made to make it comfortable and feasible. Whether it’s positioning or tools to help with cleanup creativity can go a long way in making this kink accessible to everyone.

A former client told me about her first experience with pee fetish. She said she was nervous at first but her partner’s reassurance made all the difference. They laughed, bonded, and discovered something new about their relationship. Not every story is the same but it’s worth noting how open communication can turn nerves into confidence.

Medical Considerations

Let’s get to the point: Can golden showers make you sick? In most cases, the answer is no. But if you or your partner have kidney infections, hepatitis B, or other transmissible conditions you’ll want to avoid it. Your health and theirs should always come first.

Urine is about 95% water but it also contains components like ammonia, urea, and salts. These are harmless on intact skin but could irritate sensitive areas or open wounds. If you’re prone to urinary tract infections or yeast infections proceed with caution.

Debunking Myths

“Isn’t it gross?” I’ve been asked this more times than I can count. The truth is that “gross” is subjective. One person’s discomfort is another’s turn-on. Golden showers aren’t inherently unhygienic or dangerous they’re just another part of human sexuality. It’s all about perspective and mutual agreement.

“Will I be judged for this?” Probably not. The kink community is very accepting and more people are curious about nonstandard play than you think. You’re not alone in your interests and there’s no shame in pursuing what makes you happy – safely of course.

Conclusion

Golden showers might not be for everyone but for those who are curious it can be freeing, intimate, and fun. The key is communication, preparation, and a sense of humor. After all, sex is as much about connection as it is about exploration.

So are golden showers safe? Yes, they can be with the right precautions. Just remember you’re in control of your sexual journey and there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Whatever you choose approach it with an open mind and respect and you’ll find your way to pleasure.

Rachel

Rachel Sommer, Ph.D.
Follow me
Latest posts by Rachel Sommer, Ph.D. (see all)
Bookmark the permalink.

Comments are closed.