How is sperm allergy treated?

Some women may experience allergy symptoms when they come in contact with sperm. The easiest way to cope with sperm allergy is to make sure there is no contact with semen. Couples are usually advised to use condoms every time they have sex. Sometimes, a referral to an allergist can be helpful, and a desensitizing treatment can be performed. There are also medications that a woman may be able to use to alleviate symptoms.

If a couple chooses to visit an allergist, they may use a process called intravaginal seminal graded challenge. In this procedure, the allergist places diluted amounts of the partner’s semen into the woman’s vagina every 20 minutes, gradually increasing the amount of semen until she can tolerate the pure semen. Couples who choose this route are instructed to have sex every 48 hours to maintain this level of tolerance.

As a precaution, many women with sperm allergy are prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector, or EpiPen, in case anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, occurs.
See also: What is sperm allergy?

Image

Members Only

Newsletter

ISSM Update