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Condom allergy
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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In the modern world, according to some data, up to 25% of the population suffers from various types of allergies in a variety of manifestations. One of the types of contact allergies is an allergy to condoms. This type of allergy can manifest itself both immediately, at the first contact, and after some time (according to the principle of accumulation of incoming allergens, i.e., according to the delayed type). This type of contact allergy has one feature - allergic manifestations are not noticeable at the site of contact with the allergen, which can initially complicate the diagnosis.
[ What causes condom allergies?
Today, the causes of condom allergies have been established - the culprit is polyurethane (an organic compound obtained from plant juice), which is used to make condoms, gloves, baby pacifiers and many other products. When using condoms, the molecules of the organic substance penetrate the mucous membranes and provoke the immune system. To form an immune response to polyurethane, as a rule, quite a lot of time is needed (a period of prolonged contact with polyurethane is necessary), the higher the readiness of the immune system to various allergic reactions, the faster the allergic response to polyurethane will form.
Symptoms of Condom Allergy
Manifestations, i.e. symptoms of condom allergy, can be varied. As a rule, these are local reactions - a burning sensation, discomfort, irritation of the mucous membranes at the point of contact with polyurethane, profuse discharge and swelling of the mucous membranes, redness, as well as general reactions in the form of dermatitis, coughing fits. Sometimes attacks of latex allergy mask signs of sexually transmitted diseases. It should be remembered: if allergic symptoms continue to increase after contact with the allergen is interrupted, the condition does not improve within a few days, frequent urination occurs, or an unusual smell of discharge appears - this is a reason to immediately consult a doctor.
Polyurethane is not always the only culprit of allergic attacks - allergies to condom lubricants, which consist of synthetic components, are quite common. There are several types of lubricants on the condom market - silicone, polyethylene glycol, water-based lubricants, and spermicide (nonoxenol 9) may be added. The most common cases of allergy to lubricants are allergies to nonoxenol, which is part of lubricants. This drug not only damages the sperm membrane, but also destroys the cells of the vaginal mucosa, causing massive microscopic cellular damage.
Thus, an allergy to a condom in women can have a complex component - this is an allergy to latex, and an allergy to some type of lubricant, and an allergy to spermicide. Regardless of the reasons, almost always allergic manifestations in women will begin with discharge, discomfort, swelling, as with infection. With the accumulation of an allergen, dermatitis, rhinitis, lacrimation and shortness of breath can occur. It should be noted that the development of allergic reactions to a condom in pregnant women is rare, probably due to the special state of the immune system during pregnancy. To clarify the type of allergy, allergy tests should be carried out (both the skin and any easily accessible mucous surfaces, for example, the oral cavity, can act as a contact field).
Allergy to condoms in men is becoming more common, the symptoms of which are also similar to the symptoms of infection. In the case of manifestations of allergy in men, redness, swelling, dermatitis, rhinitis, lacrimation, sneezing, asthma, coughing should be noted. Erection may be significantly difficult. In case of suspected allergy to a condom, allergy to sperm should be excluded in men. The same polyurethane (as a derivative of plant materials), lubricants and their components can act as allergens for men. The manifestation of the immune reaction will depend on the aggressiveness of the components of the lubricants, microdamage to the mucous membrane of the penis significantly accelerates the process of forming an immune response.
Treatment of condom allergy
If symptoms appear, treatment for condom allergy consists of stopping contact with the allergen and eliminating particles of the allergenic substance. Then, depending on the patient's condition, antihistamines should be taken or the patient should be referred to a hospital for first aid. This type of allergy is difficult to treat with a sensitizing type of treatment, so it is more rational to change the method of contraception or use non-polyurethane condoms. If the allergy to a condom is a reaction to the lubricant or its components, it is enough to change the brand of the product and carefully study the composition.