Sexual matters or what generally happens in the bedroom tends to remain between the partners, and ideally, this is right. However, sharing some bedroom issues with the right person such as a gynecologist or a counselor can help save your relationship.
Semen or sperm allergy is one of the sexual issues experienced by some couples, and though rare, it can cause marital problems due to the psychological issues it exerts.
What is a Semen or Sperm Allergy?
The male semen refers to the fluid released during sexual intercourse. Within the semen there are sperms when joined with the female egg, can cause fertilization hence conception. The male semen is comprised of a variety of chemicals, some of which include;
Protein
Citric acid
Potassium
Enzymes
Free amino acids
Chlorine
Calcium
Vitamin B12
Blood Group Antigens
Fructose
Lactic Acid
Cholesterol
Prostaglandin
Zinc among others
Though a majority of females are hypoallergenic to male semen, some women aren’t, meaning that they are allergic to any of the chemical in their partner’s semen. Just as a number of allergenic conditions are reported from nickel and other metals that come into contact with the skin, so is this rare disorder called “semen allergy.”
Symptoms of a Semen or Sperm Allergy
According to International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM), a sperm or semen allergy scientifically means seminal plasma hypersensitivity. It is associated with a number of symptoms such as;
Burning sensation
Painful Urination
Genital Itching
Anaphylaxis
Atopic Eczema
Itching
Hives
Swelling
Tightness In Chest
Difficulty in breathing
Though some allergic reactions may be localized, some others may affect any other part of the body. In addition, some symptoms are similar to yeast infection and herpes symptoms.
Misdiagnosis
With the fact that semen or sperm allergies are rare conditions, they are at times mistaken for herpes, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), Urinary Tract Infection, Vaginitis, or Yeast Infections.
The main reason as to why semen or sperm allergies occur is because of the chemicals and glycoprotein, a class of proteins produced by the prostate gland.
The best way to know that you are allergic to your partner’s semen or sperm is having unprotected sex. In case the semen or sperm get into contact with your skin, reactions like itchiness, burning sensation among others as explained will occur.
Some women may never know about these allergic reactions in case they always have protected sex. In case reactions occur after having unprotected sex, this means that you are allergic.
How is a Semen or Sperm Allergy Diagnosed?
A clinical diagnosis involves procedures like Isolated sperm test, also known as the prick skin test. During this test, the doctor injects a certain amount of isolated sperms into the female body. In case of any reaction, that means a woman is allergic to semen or sperm.
Another technique is known as Intradermal testing in which a certain amount of your partner’s sperms is injected into your body for evaluation.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the patient. In case ready for pregnancy, your doctor may suggest having IVF or IUI for conception. In case not ready for pregnancy, treatment involves injecting your partner’s sperms into the body while undergoing treatment.
Sperm or semen allergies may at times cause marital issues, taking time to discuss the matter with one another or a doctor is recommended to save your relationship.
