Itching, burning, swelling and irritation are all seemingly signs of a semen allergy, also referred to as seminal plasma hypersensitivity or sperm allergy. Girls might find yourself with vaginal itching or really feel an odd burning sensation after intercourse if they might be allergic to their accomplice’s semen. Whereas there are various issues whether or not this allergy impacts fertility, one truth to know that semen allergy may very well have an effect on your intercourse life.

What’s semen?

Semen is the fluid that’s emitted from male reproductive tract containing sperms and different secretions referred to as seminal plasma secreted from numerous glands like seminal vesicles, explains gynaecologist and fertility specialist Dr Meenu Handa. It comprises many constituents like fructose, amino acids, prostaglandins, calcium, potassium and protein splitting enzymes. It sometimes has a whitish-grey in color and a barely alkaline pH.

What are the causes of semen allergy in ladies?

It’s a uncommon situation the place a lady’s immune system reacts adversely to proteins present in semen, says the knowledgeable. Listed here are some potential causes and components related to semen allergy in some ladies:

1. Immune response

Semen allergy is basically the immune system’s response to particular proteins present in semen. The immune system mistakenly identifies these proteins as dangerous invaders and produces antibodies in opposition to them, resulting in allergic signs upon publicity.

2. Hypersensitivity

Some ladies might have a heightened sensitivity or predisposition to develop allergic reactions, together with semen allergy. Girls with a historical past of different allergic reactions, resembling meals allergic reactions, could also be extra liable to growing semen allergy.

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3. Hormonal adjustments

Hormonal fluctuations through the menstrual cycle or being pregnant can have an effect on the immune system’s response and should affect the severity of allergic reactions to semen in some ladies, says the knowledgeable. Adjustments in hormone ranges can even have an effect on vaginal pH and lubrication, probably exacerbating signs.

4. Earlier sexual companions

Publicity to completely different semen proteins from a number of sexual companions might set off allergic reactions in inclined ladies. It’s because every particular person’s semen comprises a singular mixture of proteins, and repeated publicity can sensitise the immune system.

5. Cross-reactivity

Some proteins in semen might share similarities with proteins present in different bodily fluids or substances, resembling latex or sure meals. Cross-reactivity between these proteins can result in allergic reactions in ladies with current allergic reactions to associated substances.

What are the signs of semen allergy in ladies?

Semen allergy could cause a spread of signs in affected ladies. These signs sometimes happen shortly after publicity to semen and may range in severity from delicate to extreme. It could trigger redness, burning sensation or ache or hives and itching round vagina and the vulva space. Listed here are some frequent signs of semen allergy:

• Vaginal itching or burning
• Redness and swelling
• Irregular vaginal discharge, which can be watery or thick and should have an uncommon odour.
• Hives (raised, crimson welts) on the pores and skin
• Localised rash

This allergy can have an effect on ladies of any age group, however a analysis printed within the Medical & Experimental Allergy journal in 2004 discovered that many ladies reported that their signs began throughout their early 30s.

How does semen allergy have an effect on intercourse life?

Semen allergy in ladies could cause vaginal itching, irritation, or discomfort that may occur throughout intercourse and persist even after intercourse. This will are available the best way of a satisfying intercourse life. Girls with semen allergy may additionally expertise ache, discomfort, or a way of rawness throughout or after intercourse, says Dr Handa. Since ladies with semen allergy might keep away from or expertise discomfort throughout intercourse, it could actually result in decreased sexual frequency and satisfaction.

The right way to handle semen allergy?

Many ladies with semen allergy can successfully handle their signs and revel in a satisfying intercourse life. Right here’s what you want to learn about managing semen allergy:

1. Avoidance

Probably the most simple strategy to managing semen allergy is to keep away from publicity to semen. This may increasingly contain utilizing barrier strategies of contraception, resembling condoms, throughout intercourse.

2. Medicines

Over-the-counter or prescription drugs could also be used to handle signs of semen allergy. Docs might let you know to have Antihistamine to
scale back itching and irritation down there. Topical corticosteroids or different anti-inflammatory lotions may additionally be really helpful for localised pores and skin reactions, says the knowledgeable.

3. Life-style modifications

Making life-style modifications, resembling training good genital hygiene and carrying breathable cotton underwear, may also help minimise discomfort and scale back the chance of secondary infections or irritation.

Does semen allergy have an effect on fertility?

Signs resembling itching, burning or swelling could make intercourse uncomfortable or painful, probably affecting sexual frequency and intimacy. Whereas semen allergy itself doesn’t immediately have an effect on fertility, the discomfort and avoidance of intercourse might not directly influence a pair’s potential to conceive, says the knowledgeable. If {couples} are unable to have intercourse repeatedly as a consequence of allergic reactions then Synthetic Insemination with no sperm from seminal plasma may also help to get pregnant.