Sperm allergy, also known as semen allergy, is more common than we think. You will be surprised to know that semen allergy can trigger at any time. One day you don’t seem to have any problem and the next day you get to know that you have developed a semen allergy overnight. If you are trying to conceive and have identified a sperm allergy, you may want to know if the sperm allergy and pregnancy are connected.
The female reproductive system is an intricate creation of the universe. In rare cases, women have been found to reject or be allergic to their partner’s sperm. The woman’s body can be allergic to certain protein components present in the semen, ultimately leading to semen allergy. Sounds strange, doesn’t it? Well, such a condition does exist, and to know more about sperm allergy or semen allergy and their effect on conception, read our article below.
In This Article
- What is Sperm Allergy?
- Semen Allergy and Pregnancy
- Can Semen Allergy Cause Skin Rash?
- What are the Symptoms of Semen Allergy?
- Does Semen Allergy Go Away?
- How Will I Know if I Have Sperm Allergy?
- Does Sperm Allergy Affect My Fertility?
- How Can Sperm Allergy be Treated?
- Can Sperm Allergy Affect Men?
- FAQ’s
What is Sperm Allergy?
Technically known as seminal plasma hypersensitivity, sperm or semen allergy is the reaction of a female’s reproductive system when it comes in contact with male semen. The allergic reaction happens due to complex proteins present in the semen. The first allergic reactions can appear about 10-30 minutes after the semen enters the woman’s body. The allergy will surface only if the semen comes into contact directly with the woman, not otherwise.
Semen Allergy and Pregnancy
Semen allergies do not affect fertility, but their symptoms can interfere with sex life. Allergies can show up in the form of rashes, itching, hives, and irritation post contact. In this way, a semen allergy can make it difficult for some women to conceive. It’s true that sperm allergy can sometimes present a challenge for conception in the form of delayed conception. But it won’t affect you or your baby once you’re pregnant. In addition, there is no scientific evidence sperm allergies cause miscarriage.
Can Semen Allergy Cause Skin Rash?
Allergies to semen can trigger rash-like symptoms. This includes redness, itching, burning, and swelling on the genital region or any other part of the body that comes into contact with semen. The symptoms are localized, but in some cases generalized semen allergy can also be seen. This means that the woman experiences itching all over the body, along with hives and trouble breathing.
What are the Symptoms of Semen Allergy?
Common symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, itchiness and a burning, tingling sensation in the vaginal area. The symptoms may not just be localized to the vagina, but anywhere where the semen has been in contact with the skin, like the legs or the mouth. Some women also show symptoms of hives, swelling in other body parts, or have trouble breathing normally. In some rare cases, Atopic Eczema or Anaphylaxis may also can occur. These symptoms can last for a couple of hours or may extend to a few days.
[Read : Can You Get Pregnant With Endometriosis?]
Does Semen Allergy Go Away?
Semen allergy develops and fades over time, just like any allergy. Mild cases do not require treatment and usually go away with repeated exposure. In severe cases, doctors will prescribe medication to help manage the allergy.
How Will I Know if I Have Sperm Allergy?
The first time a woman has sex, semen allergy may come to surface. A woman may experience sperm allergy with one partner, but not another, or the same partner after a long association. However, because the condition is rare, misdiagnosis can be common. Very often, the symptoms are similar to common infections like herpes, yeast infection, urinary tract infection or vaginitis.
If you feel that it is only after unprotected sex that you feel symptoms similar to the ones listed above, you may consider that you have semen allergy. This is because your body starts to produce or fight the proteins in male semen, which results in allergic symptoms. Your gynecologist may carry any of the following techniques to diagnose sperm allergy.
1. Intradermal Testing
This involves taking the partner’s sperm and injecting the same in the woman’s skin. A reaction will confirm sperm allergy.
2. Condom
The safest way to know that you have a semen allergy is to have protected sex. This way, the semen does not come into direct contact with the skin and the symptoms will not appear.
3. Isolated Sperm Test
In this test, some isolated sperm and seminal fluid is sent into the woman’s vagina. The diagnosis will depend on the reaction and test results. The isolated sperm will not cause any allergic reaction, but if you are allergic, the seminal fluid may prove to be allergic.
[Read : How To Stay Positive When Everyone Is Getting Pregnant But You?]
Does Sperm Allergy Affect My Fertility?
Is sperm allergy and pregnancy connected in some ways? Though this condition can be frustrating for couples as it can take a toll on the sexual life, it is not likely to affect a woman’s fertility or chances to conceive. When trying to conceive, many couples can feel disheartened as for conception to occur, unprotected sex is a prerequisite. However, the desired results may be achieved through artificial insemination or in-vitro fertilization.
How Can Sperm Allergy be Treated?
In order to treat semen allergy, your doctor may advise you to opt for the Intravaginal Seminal Graded Challenge. In this procedure, small doses of your partner’s semen are diluted and are injected into your body at regular intervals. This desensitization treatment can be a long process and allow your body to get use to the semen and develop tolerance. However, for this treatment, a couple may need to have an intercourse every 48 hours, which may or may not be feasible.
Can Sperm Allergy Affect Men?
Yes, it can. A man can be allergic to his own seminal fluid if his body produces antibodies that attack his own sperm! This can be if your partner’s sperm has come in contact with blood from a wound. And because blood and semen do not mix, the body may start to produce antibodies and attack the sperm.
All in all, though rare, this condition can be really frustrating for couples who are trying for a baby. Try not to worry, as you still have a very good chance to conceive naturally. Try to stay positive and in good spirits.
FAQ’s
1. Can I be Allergic to my Husband’s Sperms?
Yes, unfortunately you can. Semen allergy can occur when it comes in contact with your vagina. It can be quite uncomfortable.
2. Can Semen Allergy Interfere With Getting Pregnant?
Yes, it can. If your body is going to swell or get rashes every time it comes in contact with your husband’s sperms, it is not going to be a good feeling. You can opt for IVF.
3. How Can I Get Pregnant Despite Sperm Allergy?
Allergy towards your husband’s sperms need not stop you from getting pregnant. You can always try artificial insemination. You can even opt for IVF treatments.
4. Can my Husband be Allergic to his Own Sperms?
Yes, he can. Though this is rare, it is possible. It can occur if there is an antibody attacking his own sperms.
Read Also : Assess Your Health Before Trying For a Baby
