Topics: Health, Sex and Relationships, Science, Weird, Community
Everyone knows someone with an allergy, whether it's hayfever, peanuts or gluten. But have you ever heard of someone who's allergic to sex?
I know - of all the allergies to have, that has to be up there with the most unfortunate.
The good news is, this particular allergy is rare, and it involves one substance that isn't always present in sex: semen.
However, it does exist, and if you're involved in an intimate relationship where semen is going to be present, it's good to be aware for the warning signs.
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Daniel More, MD, an allergist and clinical immunologist at Allergy Partners of the Central California Coast, has broken down the symptoms and causes of a semen allergy for Very Well Health, so here's everything you need to know.
Allergic reactions to semen are typically caused by proteins in the fluid, rather than the sperm itself.
It's also possible that the allergic reaction could be the result of trace amounts of food or medications that have made their way into the semen, before coming into contact with someone who has one of those allergies.
What's particularly interesting is that just because you have an allergic reaction to one person's semen, doesn't mean you'll have a reaction with every sexual partner. I'm not suggesting you break up with your boyfriend over it, but in this particular case you could actually argue that 'it's not me, it's you'.
The symptoms of a semen allergy can be quite severe, according to More.
A reaction may result in one of the following:
If you've noticed symptoms of an allergy after sex, it is possible to undergo skin and blood allergy tests to determine whether you might be allergic.
One of the simplest ways to avoid an allergic reaction to semen is to avoid contact with the fluid, for example by using condoms.
It is also possible to gradually become de-sensitized to an allergen, for example by having increased exposure to it over a period of time. However, More has warned that if you have a history of severe reactions, you should not try to de-sensitize on your own and should instead work with a doctor to do so.
You can, but it's usually due to an added element being brought into the encounter.
Other allergies that may be linked to sex include a latex allergy, which may result from the use of condoms and cause itching, swelling and burning, as well as lubricants and spermicides, which may cause allergic reactions such as itching due to the use of scents or dyes.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you think you might be allergic to an element of sex, you should seek the advice of a doctor. It might feel a bit embarrassing, but it's better than suffering!
