Latex Condoms and Latex Allergies

How Do Condoms Cause Latex Allergies?

The actual cause of latex allergy is not known. It is thought that the proteins in the liquid extracted from the rubber tree to make latex may be what people react to. It seems as if latex allergies do develop in part from repeated exposure to latex. While estimates vary, it is thought that between 1% to 6% of the general population and about 8% to 12% of regularly exposed health care workers are have latex allergies.

Some people may be more likely to have a latex allergy. For example people who live with spina bifida are up to 70% more likely to have an allergy to natural latex. Because latex allergies increase with exposure, this may be the result of the often multiple surgical procedures children with spina bifida may undergo. But an exact reason for this is not known.

People who regularly use latex condoms may be a higher risk for a latex allergic reaction, because increased exposure to latex increases the chance of developing an allergic reaction.

What Does An Allergic Reaction to Latex Condoms Feel Like?

An allergic reaction to latex may develop within minutes or hours of exposure. People can develop an allergic reaction to latex even if they previously have not had such reactions.

There are three levels of allergic responses to latex:

1. Mild reactions: include itchiness, dryness, and burning
2. Medium reactions: same response as above, but the reaction will be more severe, last longer, and spread to other parts of the body
3. Severe reactions: includes hives, breathing difficulties, and possibly anaphylactic shock which can be fatal.

Keep in mind that what you think may be a latex reaction to the condoms you are using may actually be a separate problem altogether that is being made worse by the use of a condom. If you are having any sort of persistent or painful skin reaction on or around your genitals, it’s a good idea to see a doctor and get it checked out to determine what you are actually reacting to.

What Do I Do If I’m Allergic to Latex Condoms?

First, avoid all contact with latex in your daily life as increased exposure may increase your allergies. You should make sure that you only use non latex condoms, non latex dental dams, gloves, and sex toys. Fortunately there is more selection than ever before, and even some less expensive non latex options.

_Sources:

1. U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Administration
2. Latex Allergy, S. Reddy, American Family Physician, 57(1), 1998.