What is hypersensitivity to seminal plasma? Hypersensitivity to seminal plasma (allergy to the exchange fluid) is an allergic reaction to the proteins in the semen. This reaction may result in itching and burning of the skin and systemic symptoms such as hives and swelling. Using a condom and taking medication can help prevent the reaction. Semen allergy is also called semen contact allergy or hypersensitivity to human seminal plasma (HSP). It is not clear what the frequency of hypersensitivity to seminal plasma is. What are the symptoms of hypersensitivity to seminal plasma? Symptoms appear 10-30 minutes after contact with seminal fluid and last for several hours or up to several days. Symptoms usually resolve within 24 hours. However, localized pain, itching and general discomfort can last from several days to weeks. With the condition, the affected person usually experiences symptoms regardless of their sexual partner. In some cases, however, symptoms may develop only in a specific sexual partner. Localized reactions Semen allergy symptoms may affect the vulvovaginal area, the penis, or any other area that has come into contact with semen, including the hands, mouth, breasts, and anus. Symptoms may be local to the affected area and include: Changes in skin color of the affected area; Itching; Pain; Steaming; Swelling Blisters may also appear around the vaginal opening or penis, although this is less common. Systemic reactions In some cases, the symptoms of hypersensitivity to seminal plasma may affect the whole body, possibly resulting in: Hives; Difficulty breathing; Swelling of the tongue, lips and throat; Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting If symptoms of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction or anaphylaxis develop, seek emergency medical attention. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be a serious condition leading to complications. Symptoms develop suddenly, usually affecting more than one area of ??the body, and may include: Hives; Swelling of the face or mouth; Wheezing; Rapid, shallow breathing; Rapid heartbeat; Sticky skin; Restlessness or confusion; Vertigo; Vomiting; Blue or white lips; Fainting or loss of consciousness; Difficulty swallowing; Husky voice; Stomach pains; Vomiting; Diarrhea; Change in skin color; A sense of dread of impending doom Can men be allergic to their own semen? Men can be allergic to their own semen. The term for this is post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS). Post-orgasmic illness syndrome is a rare condition that causes a flu-like reaction after ejaculation and presents with symptoms such as:Fatigue; Headache; Fever; Stuffy nose; Sore Throat Post orgasm syndrome can occur due to an autoimmune or allergic reaction to substances in the semen or an imbalance of chemicals in the brain. What are the causes and risk factors for the occurrence of hypersensitivity to seminal plasma? Semen allergy is a rare condition that occurs when the immune system reacts to proteins in semen, causing an allergic reaction. No one knows exactly why the condition develops, but it most commonly affects women. More than 40% of women with hypersensitivity to seminal plasma may experience an allergy after the first intercourse. Of those who develop the condition, over 60% are diagnosed between the ages of 20-30. Some women may develop hypersensitivity to seminal plasma for the first time after menopause. Hypersensitivity to seminal plasma can sometimes occur with one sexual partner and not another, but it can also appear suddenly in a long-term sexual partner. People with a family history (medical history) of the condition are often at greater risk of developing the condition. How is hypersensitivity to seminal plasma diagnosed? Hypersensitivity to seminal plasma can cause similar symptoms to other conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), vaginitis, or yeast infections. The doctor takes a history and evaluates symptoms to diagnose the condition, and may also order tests to rule out other possible conditions, such as: Vaginal exam; Taking the discharge sample with a vaginal swab to test for bacterial or fungal infections; Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which help rule out any sexually transmitted infections; Blood tests The doctor may perform a skin prick test using a sample of semen proteins from the sexual partner to be checked for a reaction. What is the treatment for hypersensitivity to seminal plasma? Treatment options for hypersensitivity to seminal plasma may include: Using condoms; Taking an oral antihistamine 30-60 minutes before intercourse; Using an epinephrine autoinjector, such as an EpiPen, in case of a severe allergic reaction; Desensitizing treatment, which may involve gradually diluting sperm from a sexual partner into the vagina or injecting sperm proteins under the skin The condition can affect intimacy and lead to sexual dysfunction and relationship problems. Hypersensitivity to seminal plasma does not directly affect fertility or pregnancy. However, it may affect the ability to conceive if partners use barrier methods (condoms) to protect themselves from an allergic reaction during intercourse. Artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used.In these methods, “washing” the sperm prevents an allergic reaction. In most cases, artificial insemination with washed sperm does not cause allergic reactions in women with hypersensitivity to seminal plasma. References: 1. Janz-Robinson, E. (2019). Semen contact allergy 2. Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center. Postorgasmic illness syndrome 3. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Anaphylaxis 4. Medical News Today. What is a semen allergy?