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How semen and latex allergies occur

Did you know that it is possible to be allergic to condoms and semen? A lot of us may know or have heard of allergies but may not how they occur?

You may be allergic to dogs, cats, or even dust. Whatever you are allergic to, it may result in a sneeze, or a nasal flare-up, resolved with a simple antihistamine. But some allergic reactions are life-threatening!

To understand allergies, let’s look at the human immune system; the body’s foot soldiers. They protect us from invading organisms which can make us ill. But when you have an allergy, your immune system mistakes a harmless substance, called allergens, for an invader. 

The immune system creates a Spartan-like defense, sending antibodies to cells, which release histamine and other chemicals, which then cause allergic reactions. So a bee sting, or peanuts, or even semen or latex – what many condoms are made of – will send the body into overdrive to fight.

And in the process of fighting, your body reacts violently to eject the allergens with symptoms in the nose, throat, sinuses, ears, lungs, stomach, or skin. You may have seen or experienced this irresistible sensation to scratch your skin, sneeze, grunt or rub your ear when you have allergies.

Or maybe have a shooting pain in your stomach – or worse, you start gasping for air. In some cases, the reaction is so violent it becomes instantaneously life-threatening. This is called anaphylaxis.

To learn more about semen and latex allergies, see articles below:

Related: Do I have latex allergy?

Related: How do I know if I am allergic to semen?

Would you like to share your experiences with allergies or have any questions, ask in the comments section.

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Recent Comments (6)

  1. My bf complains of…
    My bf complains of discomfort with condoms and rashes too…can we switch from male condom to female condom or the same might occur especially the rashes,coz he losses interest in continuing with sex after the 1st shot

    1. Hi Mourine, 

      It could be…

      Hi Mourine, 

      It could be that he is allergic to latex. Fortunately, there are other condom options that you may consider. These non-latex options include Polyurethane condoms and Polyisoprene condoms. You should get these in your pharmacy/chemist. 

  2. when I use condom after sex…
    when I use condom after sex my vagina itches and get bruises I have tried taking medicine but it does not stop what’s might be the problem

    1. Hi caro, 

      It could be that…

      Hi caro, 

      It could be that you are addicted to latex. You can consider using non-latex condoms. Yet, I would advise that you visit a doctor to get a doctor’s opinion. 

  3. Hi I had skin rashes after…
    Hi I had skin rashes after making love to my bf till now its still there could it be semen alligie?

    1. Hi Sophie, 

      Semen allergy…

      Hi Sophie, 

      Semen allergy may last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on how severe it is. If it has been a few weeks and you still have the rashes, you may need to visit a doctor for tests. It could be that you have an infection. 

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