When you think of common allergens, pollen, mold, and dust probably come to mind. But did you know that some people are allergic to sex? You may not believe it, but it’s true. Sex allergies occur when there is something in the environment to trigger the immune system to respond abnormally. Unfortunately, the culprit isn’t always easy to find.
Furthermore, sex allergies are difficult to pinpoint because symptoms of sex allergies are also side effects of just having sex like heavy breathing, sweating, and increased heart rate.
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If left untreated, sex allergies can worsen and hinder your sex life, and that is why it is so important to spot the symptoms of sex allergies so that you can get treated for it.
Common symptoms of sex allergies include:
- Wheezing
- Itching
- Hives
- Vaginal burning
- Swelling
- Chest tightness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Blistering
- Loss of consciousness
These symptoms can overlap with several other conditions. Here is how you can better distinguish between sex allergies and other conditions.
How to Determine If You Have Sex Allergies
Symptoms occur after sleeping with someone new: This is more in women because it is triggered by semen. Known as plasma hypersensitivity (SPH), protein in semen triggers an allergic reaction such as burning or pain. You may also experience hives, swelling, shortness of breath, dizziness, and diarrhea. The good news is that this condition is rare and can be prevented with the use of a condom.
You feel sick after orgasm: In rare cases, men can have a negative reaction to their own semen, which causes them to feel sick after orgasm. Some men experience flu-like symptoms. Because the condition is so rare, there are no treatments for it.
Burning or itching after using a condom: Nearly three million Americans are allergic to latex. Signs of a latex allergy are burning, itching, and vaginal irritation. The good news is that there are plenty of other materials that condoms are made from to prevent irritation. For some, it may not be a latex allergy but a lubricant allergy. You may have to try a variety of brands before finding one that works best.
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Feelings of discomfort after trying new lubricant: As mentioned, some people are allergic to the ingredients in lubricants. Unlike food that must disclose all the ingredients, sex-related items typically don’t. Either keep swapping out lubricants to find one that doesn’t cause irritation or try going without it to determine if that is your trigger.
Symptoms appear after changing your pre-sex routine: An allergic reaction may arise during sex but may be triggered by something different you did prior to sex such as eating a different food.
If you suspect that you have some type of sex-related allergy, speak to your doctor.
