Blog

Latex allergy poses problems for couples searching for safe and effective contraception.

What are the symptoms that a woman is allergic to latex condoms?

• Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to a latex condom are vaginal itching and swelling within minutes after use.
• A serious allergic reaction, termed anaphylaxis, would include vaginal itching and swelling but also may include widespread hives, respiratory symptoms (cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, throat tightness), gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, cramping, vomiting, diarrhea), feeling of impending doom or even shock (low blood pressure). This is a medical emergency and needs to be treated immediately.
• Delayed reactions of vaginal rash, swelling and itching occurring 24 hours after use of a condom may indicate an allergic reaction from chemicals added to the latex during latex production. This type of reaction is not associated with severe symptoms like anaphylaxis.

Currently, the only treatment for latex allergy is identifying latex-containing products, avoiding them, using suitable alternatives and being prepared to treat an allergic reaction quickly.

For women with latex allergy, what types of condoms are safe?

Three different options for condoms exist for the latex allergic patient. These are polyurethane (plastic), polyisoprene (synthetic rubber) and natural membrane (lambskin).

• Polyurethane condoms for men were introduced in 1995. A current example is the Trojan Supra™Microsheer™ (www.trojancondoms.com)
• Polyisoprene condoms for men include Durex Avanti Bare RealFeel Non-Latex condoms® (www.durexusa.com) and SKYN® condoms by LifeStyles® (www.skyncondoms.com).
• Other non-latex contraceptive options for women are the FemCap (www.femcap.com) made from surgical silicone and designed to cover the cervix to prevent the entry of sperm.
• The FC1® Female condom was made from polyurethane while the newer generation FC2® female condom (www.femalehealth.com) is made from nitrile.

Clinical data are unavailable concerning whether synthetic non-latex condoms prevent sexually transmitted infections. Condom breakage rates are higher with synthetic non-latex condoms compared to latex condoms. The discontinuation rates have been higher and satisfaction lower with synthetic non-latex condoms compared to latex condoms. However, despite their drawbacks, synthetic non-latex condoms are an acceptable alternative for those who cannot use latex condoms consistently.

The American Latex Allergy Association has more information, go to: www.latexallergyresources.org/articles/latex-and-contraception.

In addition, early recognition of an allergic reaction with appropriate treatment is important. The most important medication to have immediately available is self-injectable epinephrine available as EpiPen® or Auvi-Q™.

At Family Allergy & Asthma Care of Montana, we encourage responsible actions and informed decisions. Before using any condom, read and rely solely on the specific effectiveness, claims, warnings and directions for the use of each product.

This information is solely for informational purposes and not intended as a substitute for consultation with a medical professional.