Semen Allergy: Symptoms and Medical Guidance

Q: Semen Allergy: Symptoms and Medical Guidance

Hello： This type is rare, and it may be necessary to see an allergist at a large hospital for evaluation. <br>Wishing you good health. <br>It might be necessary to investigate other causes as well. <br>Wishing you good health.

Seminal fluid allergy?

Approximately starting from March or April of this year, I began having sexual intercourse with my girlfriend.
After that, she developed eczema on her fingers, despite having no previous history of eczema.
Initially, we didn't pay much attention to it and did not seek medical attention, so the eczema persisted mildly.
Later, around the National Day in October, my girlfriend experienced swelling of her eyelids.
The last sexual intercourse before this was in early August, and we had sexual activity a few days after the symptoms appeared.
A few days later, the eyelid swelling worsened, and it seemed that the hand eczema also intensified.
She then consulted a dermatologist for both the hand eczema and eyelid issues, and her condition improved.
However, after stopping the medication, she still experienced eczema and itching on her hands.
Recently, she has again developed eyelid swelling.
Aside from the sexual activity mentioned around National Day, we have not engaged in sexual intercourse since then.
We have performed oral sex and there was external ejaculation on her abdomen.
During intercourse, we used condoms, and there have been no allergic reactions (swelling, pain, or itching) in the mouth or abdomen.
I would like to know if this could be a symptom of semen allergy, and which specialty should we consult for further examination? Thank you.

Thanos, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/04

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: This type is rare, and it may be necessary to see an allergist at a large hospital for evaluation.
Wishing you good health.
It might be necessary to investigate other causes as well.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/11/04

More Info

Understanding semen allergy, also known as human seminal plasma hypersensitivity, is crucial for individuals experiencing unexplained allergic reactions following sexual activity. Based on your description, your girlfriend has developed symptoms such as hand eczema and eyelid swelling after engaging in sexual activities, which raises the possibility of a semen allergy or another allergic reaction.

Symptoms of Semen Allergy
Semen allergy can manifest in various ways, including:
1. Localized Reactions: These may include redness, swelling, and itching in areas that come into contact with semen, such as the vagina or skin. In your girlfriend's case, the hand eczema could potentially be a localized reaction if there was direct contact with semen.

2. Systemic Reactions: In some cases, individuals may experience more generalized symptoms, such as hives, swelling (angioedema), or even anaphylaxis, which is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. The eyelid swelling your girlfriend experienced could fall under this category, especially if it occurred after sexual activity.

3. Chronic Skin Conditions: Persistent eczema or dermatitis can also be a sign of an allergic reaction, especially if it worsens after exposure to a specific allergen, such as semen.

Medical Guidance and Next Steps
Given the symptoms your girlfriend has experienced, it is advisable to take the following steps:
1. Consult an Allergist: The most appropriate specialist to evaluate potential semen allergy is an allergist. They can perform specific tests, such as skin prick tests or serum IgE tests, to determine if there is an allergic response to seminal plasma proteins.

2. Dermatologist Consultation: Since your girlfriend has a history of eczema, consulting a dermatologist may also be beneficial. They can assess the skin condition and provide treatment options to manage the eczema effectively.

3. Avoidance: Until a diagnosis is confirmed, it may be prudent to avoid sexual activities that involve exposure to semen. This includes vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and any other activities where semen may come into contact with the skin or mucous membranes.

4. Symptom Management: If your girlfriend experiences itching or discomfort, over-the-counter antihistamines may help alleviate mild allergic symptoms. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

5. Document Symptoms: Keeping a detailed record of symptoms, including when they occur, their severity, and any potential triggers, can provide valuable information to healthcare providers.

Conclusion
While the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing could suggest a semen allergy, it is essential to undergo proper medical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis. Consulting an allergist and possibly a dermatologist will provide the best course of action. They can help determine whether the symptoms are indeed related to semen or if another underlying condition is causing the allergic reactions. In the meantime, avoiding exposure to semen and managing the eczema with appropriate treatments will be crucial in preventing further discomfort.

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