Health Topics Web

Condom latex allergy is a phenomenon that affects at least 2% of the general population at any one time. It is therefore no small problem so let’s take a look at how it manifests itself and what the alternatives are.

What Is Condom Latex Allergy?

Most condoms are made of latex which is a natural rubber material. Unfortunately, around 1% to 3% of the population will suffer from an unwanted response.

Usually, this presents itself as a skin breakout, rash or blotches but sometimes it can progress to blistering. A very few people may even suffer anaphylactic shock and require a shot of adrenalin but this is extremely rare.

Health Workers

Health workers and others who come into regular contact with latex (usually due to wearing gloves) actually have an increased chance of a latex allergy due to the exposure. Something like 6% of health workers will have this allergy.

What Are The Alternatives?

Before considering the alternatives, you should make sure that it definitely is the latex that you or your partner are suffering a reaction to. For instance, some people may be suffering a reaction to a spermicide rather than the latex of the condom itself.

The most common alternatives are polyurethane and lambskin.

Polyurethane is a synthetic plastic that actually feels much better than a latex condom i.e. greater sensation and better transmission of body heat.

Lambskin condoms are made from the intestinal membrane of a lamb (think sausages!). They are 100% natural and said to give the best sensation for any condom.

Worse Protection Against STIs

Although non-latex condoms work well to prevent pregnancy, they do not provide an efficient barrier against sexually transmitted infections. So, use them only with a partner that you trust.