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We know about food or even respiratory allergies. But some allergies are more unknown, like those relating to sex life. You still need to know how to recognize them when they occur.
Seminal fluid
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The phenomenon is called hypersensitivity to seminal fluid (HSLS). Semen allergy – since that’s what it is – seems as rare as it is underdiagnosed.
“The main allergen is prostate specific antigen (PSA), but other glycoproteins are probably involved,” Swiss doctors reported in a 2017 publication.
With reactions that most often manifest in the form of hives which can be generalized, also in the presence of recurrent or chronic inflammation of the vulva and vagina or non-infectious pelvic pain. To avoid any exposure, in the most severe cases, wearing a condom may be recommended.
Le latex
We are talking here about an allergy to natural rubberconstituting… condoms! This allergy manifests itself very quickly after contact between latex and skin.
And this, in different ways and with a very variable degree of severity, ranging from simple local itching to allergic shock with drop in blood pressure.
The advice? Turn to latex-free, polyurethane condoms. Furthermore, be aware that very often, this type of allergy is associated with a hypersensitivity to certain fruits and vegetables such as bananas, avocados or kiwis.
Some lubricants
Beyond that, allergens can also hide in other types of intimate products, such as lubricants. In fact, they contain preservatives and perfumeslikely to contain allergenic or irritating substances.
Spermicides
These contraceptive substances may also contain allergens, including glycerin. Spermicides are often sold in gel or cream form.
What advice?
If you have symptoms (irritation, hives, etc.) that could suggest an allergy, you should contact your doctor. Which can direct towards an allergy assessment in order to pinpoint the allergen(s) in question.
A desensitization may possibly be proposed. If the result is not conclusive, the challenge remains to exclude the allergen, which may involve, depending on the case, a modification of sexual behavior.
With Destination Santé.
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