Even when the number is not high, I am sure there are women who have had a terrible reaction after sex and just did not understand why. With this happening repeatedly, most women end up being frustrated and often end up mistaking the reaction for a yeast infection. This only leaves one issue – latex allergy. Yes, you may be allergic to condoms and it is a real thing. Here is more information:
According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, latex is a fluid that comes from rubber trees from which most natural rubber is derived. Lots of things are made from latex including gloves, balloons, rubber bands, as well as condoms.
As such, being allergic to latex involves anything that is made from latex. Latex allergy symptoms usually show up in the nose, lungs, throat, sinuses, ears, lining of the stomach, or on the skin. However, condoms may trigger a more severe reaction because of the sensitivity of vaginal mucus membranes. And if you’re having a reaction to a latex condom, you will have symptoms in and around your vagina. It’s easier for latex to enter your bloodstream through mucus membranes than regular skin. If you have a latex allergy, your body mistakes latex for a harmful substance. This then means that your body reacts by trying to fight off a dangerous substance, even though there isn’t one present. This will then cause certain symptoms that will show you that you are allergic to latex. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, itching, reddened skin, a rash or hives.
However, you can still practice safe sex with latex-free condoms. It’s a good idea to keep latex-free condoms on hand because a sexual partner may not have such. These alternatives may include femidoms, which are great substitutes for latex condoms because the type of protection is completely different and instead of placing a condom on the penis for protection, you place a pouch into your vagina. The pouch is made of silicone and has a flexible ring that offers a secure fit. Similar to a latex condom, female condoms have a lubricant layer for easy insertion. These condoms protect from both STDs and pregnancy.
If you suspect you have a latex condom allergy, talk to your doctor. If you experience irritation or discomfort during sex, try using a lubricant for less friction. But, be careful, because even lubricants may cause irritation. Symptoms like swelling and itching may indicate a condom allergy.
* Frieda Mukufa’s lifestyle section concentrates on women-related issues and parenting every Friday in the New Era newspaper. She also specialises in editing research proposals, proofreading as well as content creation.
- etuholefrieda@gmail.com