Have you just had a baby or simply don’t plan on having a child right now and don’t like taking birth control or don’t want to use other contraceptive methods? The safest and most recommended method as immediate prevention is the condom1, but did you know that both men and women can have a condom allergy?
It is a very rare type of allergy2 and few men and women experience symptoms, but those who suffer from this problem will hardly be able to use condoms during sexual intercourse without considerable discomfort, especially during and after sex. The condom allergy is not related to the condom itself but to the material used in its manufacturing: latex. Latex has been used since 1980 in condom production and was chosen as the best material to prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases as well as to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Because it is a resistant and stretchy material, there are few chances it will fail to protect the couple unless it is improperly worn or used incorrectly. Condom allergy is divided into two types of allergic reactions: contact dermatitis and immediate reaction.
Type 4 condom allergy, which causes contact dermatitis, is when exposure to latex causes itching, burning, redness, possibly some wounds, and pain in the female and male genital area. Discomfort can occur during sex or be noticed afterwards, leaving the area very red and sore. The second type of allergy, which is considered more severe, is type 1; contact with the material that triggers the allergy can lead to allergic rhinitis and, in more severe cases, even anaphylactic shock. The allergic reaction to a condom can appear within about 5 minutes after latex contact, and sores caused by the allergy can occur up to 60 minutes after; a hospital or emergency care should be sought immediately.
Latex is used in the manufacture of various products, especially those used in the medical field such as gloves and other surgical materials, in sports equipment, and even as part of work in some industries. Therefore, it is recommended to pay attention to any signs and reactions after using the material. Condom allergy is just one possible reaction to latex, so it’s worth being alert.
How to Confirm Condom Allergy? Are There Other Options?
The best way to confirm if you have a condom or latex allergy is to have a full allergy test. In cases of type 4 reaction, which causes redness and pain at the site, a doctor may identify the allergy even through a clinical exam and then order a simple complementary test, where the product in question is placed directly on the skin to observe the reaction. In another, more comprehensive test, a blood test is performed to check IgE levels in your blood—in other words, to see how your antibodies are responding.
If your condom allergy is confirmed, your doctor may advise the use of condoms made from polyurethane3, such as female condoms. Some people believe this material is not as strong and reliable, but when used as recommended, it is just as effective as latex condoms. The female condom is made of polyurethane, measures 17 centimeters, and should be inserted into the vagina to protect against sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy. The only issue with these condoms is that they are harder to find, as few pharmacies and drugstores currently offer this type of condom.
