Is That Penis Rash Caused by a Latex Allergy?

For most men, using a condom is easy and straightforward. But for some, even though things might seem fine at first, within hours they wind up with a serious penis rash, itching, redness and even swelling, all of which can be rather frightening. This is the reality for those who suffer from a latex allergy. For men who have this problem, attention to good penis care includes doing whatever necessary to avoid latex condoms. The good news is that there are plenty of other options out there.

What is a latex allergy?

Being allergic to latex is just like being allergic to anything else; coming into contact with a certain product or substance can lead to very undesirable side effects. For those who are allergic to latex, simply coming into contact with a product that contains it can lead to issues. Since most condoms are made of latex, this can become an issue for a man who tries to wear one.

The symptoms of a latex condom allergy can include a serious penis rash, redness, itching, and even swelling. There might be a burning sensation, and the penis might be sore to the touch. A man might also notice symptoms on areas other than the penis, such as his hands and fingertips – any part of his body that touched the condom might show the signs of an allergy.

To make matters even worse, some men can develop a latex allergy over time. This means that they might have been able to readily use latex condoms for years, but suddenly they begin to have serious issues. These men might be especially surprised, and could make the mistake of assuming a latex allergy is actually a sexually transmitted infection. This is why it’s very important to see the doctor at the first sign of an allergy.

Keep in mind that though very severe reactions are exceedingly rare, they do happen. If a man uses a latex condom and then has all the typical symptoms plus trouble breathing, call for emergency assistance. Don’t wait! Severe allergic reactions do not mess around, and usually do not clear up without medical assistance.

How to deal with a latex allergy

When a man discovers a penis rash and connects it to the use of a latex condom, he should immediately head for the shower. It’s vitally important to wash away any potential residue from the condom in order to ensure faster healing. If it’s the first time dealing with this, a visit to the doctor is in order. Simple testing can determine if the problem is indeed a latex allergy.

But what about protection? Fortunately, there are a few options. Men can turn to polyurethane condoms to keep up with their sexual fun. These condoms are a bit more expensive than latex, but they do just as good a job of preventing pregnancy and the spread of disease. Those who are in a committed relationship with no worries about disease can turn to lambskin condoms, which are known for preventing pregnancy (but do not prevent infection).

During the healing phase after the allergic reaction, a man should take good care to treat his penis well. This includes the use of a powerful penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven mild and safe for skin). Look for a crème that contains acetyl-L carnitine, which is known for battling nerve damage, and alpha-lipoic acid, which does wonders to fight against free radicals that can cause damage to the skin. Vitamins A and D are also crucial, as they both have antibacterial properties. Soothing Shea butter and vitamin E can also help ease the burning, itching and penis rash that often accompany a latex allergy.

Is That Penis Rash Caused by a Latex Allergy? by John Dugan