5 Facts About Semen Allergies

Semen allergies may seem like a laughing matter, but for women who suffer from this allergy, it is anything but. Though rare, some women (and men) have been known to experience allergic reactions when coming into contact with semen. This allergy is referred to as human seminal plasma protein hypersensitivity. Here are five facts about semen allergies.

1. Symptoms of an Allergy May be Mistaken for an STD

The symptoms of semen allergies are very similar to those characteristic of STDs and yeast infections. Some of the common symptoms of this allergy include itching, burning, and swelling at the area of skin that has come in contact with semen, according to WebMD. Difficulty breathing, redness, hives, and swollen eyes have also been reported.

2. Some Women May Also be Allergic to Oral Sex

Although it is not as well documented, some women have reported that they have experienced allergic reactions during oral sex. Some women report nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and throat congestion when they ingest semen.

3. Semen Allergies Can Occur at Any Time

You would think that you'd know if you have a semen allergy early in the relationship, right? Wrong. It seems to partly depend on the woman's resistance to her partner's semen. If you stop having sex for a period of time and resume having it again, you may notice the allergy for the first time, according to MSNBC. It's also unknown what causes this allergy, so it could be related to a change that a man makes which changes his seminal plasma protein, according to MSNBC.

4. Frequent Sex Can Reduce the Allergy

Don't think that you need to swear off having sex if you have a semen allergy. In fact, research has found that having it more frequently can cure your allergy. Keep in mind that in addition to having sex two to three times a week, you'll need to either have allergy injections containing small doses of your partner's semen or undergo a treatment in which your doctor will place increasing amounts of your partner's semen in your vagina every 20 minutes, according to WebMD.

5. It's Still Possible to Get Pregnant

Women who don't want to risk having sex without a condom to prevent coming into contact with semen may be concerned about their ability to get pregnant. The good news is that pregnancy is possible for women with semen allergies. Artificial insemination using sperm which has been washed free of semen and IVF are two possible options, according to the Mayo Clinic. Undergoing treatment to cure or lessen semen allergies may also be ideal.

If you suspect that you could have a semen allergy, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider. It's ideal to get tested for STDs and infections before undergoing allergy testing.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only. Consult with a licensed healthcare professional if you're concerned about your health.

Sources:
Columbia University
Mayo Clinic
MSNBC
WebMD