Can you have a reaction to your lips, if you are allergic to latex condoms?


An allergy to the latex used in condoms is not uncommon. An allergic reaction to latex may manifest in two ways. The first is an immediate allergic reaction where symptoms are almost instantaneous. The other type of reaction is a delayed reaction where symptoms develop 12 to 36 hours after initial contact with the latex product. If you are allergic to latex, you may experience some of the following symptoms:

  • Coughing
  • Itchy throat
  • Wheezing
  • Sneezing
  • Watery eyes
  • A burning sensation on the parts of the skin that have come in contact with the latex condom.
  • A skin rash that may range from itchy pink skin to burning red patches
  • Flaky scaly skin.
  • Itching around the genital area
  • If there was oral sex involved, itching may also occur around the lips and tongue as well as the throat
  • Blisters may form around the areas of exposure to the latex condom. These blisters are usually water-filled and very painful. They can also appear on other parts of the body.
Your doctor may recommend an allergist or immunologist who will diagnose your condition. After taking a complete health history, several tests will be conducted to determine whether you are allergic to latex or not. These may include skin tests or blood tests.

If the allergy to latex is not treated properly or in time, it can result in anaphylaxis or shock. Anaphylaxis refers to a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention or can prove fatal. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling of the lips and tongue, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain and an irregular heartbeat are all warning signs of an anaphylactic shock. If you experience any of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately.

The best treatment for a latex allergy is to avoid the product completely.

For mild cases of latex allergies, over-the-counter medications such as antihistamine can help relieve the symptoms. If you do think you are allergic to latex, consult your doctor immediately to discuss treatment options as well as alternatives for contraception. Apart from other means of birth control, there are also alternatives to latex condoms that are now available. A new natural rubber is being developed and is used in many products. Initial studies show that there are no allergic reactions to this alternative and people with latex allergies can safely use the same. Natural skin condoms are also available but while these types of condoms protect against pregnancy they do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or HIV.

answered by A S

Yes if you are allergic to latex condoms you can get an adverse reaction with its use (it can be on lips or on vaginal opening). Preferably try to use non-latex condoms while performing a sexual activity to avoid any allergic reactions.

answered by S P


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