Allergic to condoms?

Q: Is it possible for me to be allergic to latex? Whenever I use a condom, the area is red and sore afterward, and I claim that performance is hindered. Is there another safe option?

A: You definitely can be allergic to latex. In fact, the incidence of latex allergy among health care workers is estimated at 10 to 17 percent. (Many medical devices, from protective gloves to urinary catheters and some syringes, are made of latex, just as most condoms are.) Symptoms can include contact dermatitis -- a rash that develops after exposure -- hives, feeling faint, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, runny eyes, breathing problems and even anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires emergency treatment.

About half of all people who react to latex are also allergic to something else. They are often sensitive to bananas, chestnuts, kiwi fruit, avocados and tomatoes, and some also react to figs, apples, melons, potatoes, papayas and stone fruits such as cherries and peaches. You'd know if you were sensitive to any of these foods by the itching in your mouth when eating them. All contain the same type of protein found in latex (which comes from the sap of commercially grown rubber trees).

Unfortunately, the only treatment for latex allergy is avoidance. This poses a problem as far as condoms are concerned because alternatives are limited. You could try a polyurethane brand of condom called Avanti, said to be hypoallergenic and compatible with oil-based lubricants. (Remember never to use oil-based lubricants with latex condoms!) Although Avanti has been approved for sale in the United States, there is some controversy over its efficacy in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases, related to breakage and slippage rates. There is also the polyurethane female condom (Reality) that your partner might consider. Check with your local Planned Parenthood or STD hotline for the latest research on these non-latex prophylactics. Forget about using lambskin condoms, as they do not prevent transmission of STDs such as syphilis or HIV.
Andrew Weil, M.D.

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