Why Rhiannan Iffland's Waterslide Stunt is Sparking Controversy

A controversial waterslide that advises that only men should go down it was taken on by a female diver. It seems bizarre that in this day and age, there are things that men can do that women can't, but this one might come with a good reason. Some waterslides come with genuine health risks.

Credit: Henrik Sorensen/Getty The slide, part of the extreme activities lineup at Area 47 - known for bungee jumping, canyoning, white-water rafting, and Europe’s "fastest waterslide" - reaches speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph). The park’s sign warns women against using this slide, cautioning against potentially harmful side effects that can occur as high-pressure water impacts the body during the rapid descent. Some waterslides can lead to severe injuries and infections in women due to what’s colloquially referred to as a “waterslide enema,” when forceful water pressure enters the body during high-speed slides.

A study published by the National Library of Medicine explains that “water under high pressure can produce vaginal injury,” likely the basis of the sign’s restriction, per the Mirror . Such high-speed slides have, in past instances, led to infections or injuries in women due to water force and foreign particles in the water. The speed and pressure of slides can be dangerous.