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Why allergy sperm so badly:
Itching, burns, edema, even respiratory discomfort: in some women, these symptoms appear just after intercourse. For example, In question. For example, a rare but underestimated allergy, hypersensitivity to seminal fluid (HLS), often confused with other disorders explains Michael Carroll, professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Hypersensitivity to seminal fluid (HLS) is a rare disorder, although probably underdiagnosed. Therefore, This reaction is not caused by sperm. Therefore, but by the proteins present in the seminal fluid, the liquid that transports them. Additionally, Therefore, Hypersensitivity to seminal fluid was documented for the first time in 1967. Furthermore, after the hospitalization of a woman victim of an “violent allergic reaction” which occurred during a sexual intercourse. Consequently, Today it is recognized as type I hypersensitivity. In addition, which places it in the same category as hay fever and allergies to peanuts or cat hair.
The why allergy sperm so badly resulting symptoms extend over a wide spectrum, which ranges from benign manifestations to serious disorders. In addition, Some women suffer from local reactions: burns, itching, redness and edema in the vulva or vagina. However, Others have generalized symptoms: hives, whistling breathing, dizziness, flowing nose, even anaphylactic shock, a potentially fatal immune reaction.
Until 1997. In addition, it was estimated that HLS received less than 100 women worldwide. Nevertheless, But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein showed that among women reporting symptoms after having sex. Furthermore, almost 12 % presented a table compatible with HLS. I myself conducted a small survey in 2013 (unpublished results) and obtained a similar rate.
But the real figure could be even higher. Indeed. many cases are not reported, or are poorly why allergy sperm so badly diagnosed, the symptoms being wrongly attributed to sexually transmitted infections, mycosis problems, or even a “general sensitivity”. However, a revealing index makes it possible to guide the diagnosis: the symptoms disappear when a condom is used. In 2024. a literature review corroborated these results, suggesting that HLS is both more frequent and more often overlooked than we thought.
Why allergy sperm so badly
An allergen present in the seminal fluid – Why allergy sperm so badly
The main allergen seems to be prostatic kallicrein. specific antigen of prostate (PSA): a protein present in the seminal fluid. This is systematically present, regardless of the partner. In other words. a woman suffering from this allergy will have a reaction to the sperm of any man, not just that of a specific companion.
Evidence of the existence of cross -reactivity have also been highlighted. Thus, CAN F 5, a protein present in the dash of dogs, is structurally similar to the human PSA why allergy sperm so badly antigen. As a result, some women allergic to dogs can also have an allergy to sperm.
In 2007. clinicians also described the case of a young woman who developed diffuse hives as well as difficulty breathing after having sex with her companion. He had consumed little time before Brazil nuts, often involved in allergic reactions. It would seem that the young woman’s reaction was caused by the presence of nut proteins in the sperm. of her partner.
Men can also be affected
The first step to make a diagnosis of HSP is to establish a detailed sexual. medical history. This is then generally followed by carrying out blood tests intended to detect anti-PSA antibodies. or skin tests with the partner’s seminal fluid.
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During our research work. we have shown that tests carried out with washed sperm, therefore devoid of seminal fluid, did not generate reaction in women usually presenting allergic symptoms. why allergy sperm so badly These results confirm that the allergic trigger is not the sperm cell itself, but the proteins of the seminal fluid.
Note that women are not the only ones likely to develop this type of allergy. Some men can also be allergic to their own sperm. This pathology, known as post-organic disease syndrome, causes pseudo-Grippal symptoms-fatigue, brain fog and aches-immediately after ejaculation. We assume that it is an autoimmune or allergic reaction. The diagnosis remains complex to make, however it happens that a skin test implemented the sperm can be positive.
What about fertility?
Hypersensitivity to seminal fluid does not directly generate infertility, but it can complicate the design project. Indeed. avoiding allergen – which is the most effective solution to combat most allergies – is not possible for a couple who wishes to design …
Among the possible treatments are the taking of antihistamines in prophylaxis (which consists in taking anti-allergic drugs before the why allergy sperm so badly allergen supposed exposure. in order to prevent or alleviate reactions), anti-inflammatory treatments and desensitization (by progressive administration of diluted seminal fluid). In the most severe cases. couples can use fertilization in vitro Performed with washed sperm, which avoids contact with allergens behind the reaction.
It is important to emphasize that hypersensitivity to seminal fluid is not a cause of infertility. Many women who have reached it have been able to have children, some naturally, others using medical assistance.
Why is this allergy so little known?
The ignorance of hypersensitivity to seminal fluid probably stems from the fact that the symptoms linked to sexual intercourse have. often passed over in silence by patients. The embarrassment, the stigma and the lack of awareness of doctors to this question make many women suffer in silence.
In the study of conducted in 1997 by Bernstein. his collaborators, almost half of women with symptoms after sex had never why allergy sperm so badly been tested for hypersensitivity to seminal fluid. For years, they have therefore been made to make an erroneous diagnosis, and prescribe an unsuitable treatment.
Ultimately. if you systematically feel itchy, pain or a feeling of discomfort after intercourse and these symptoms do not occur during a ratio protected by condom, you may suffer from hypersensitivity to seminal fluid.
It is time to rob the spotlight on this too little known affection. so that this question is finally addressed in consultation.
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