Allergic reaction to semen

23 January, 2018

Question:

Ever since I have been married, I have been getting what I thought were yeast infections after sex – burning and intense itching. Together with my health provider, I have discovered that it's not yeast infections but in fact I am actually allergic to a protein within the semen. In order to comfortably continue having sex without an allergic reaction, can my husband wear a condom?

Answer:

Condom use is almost never permitted, because of the prohibition of hotza'at zera levatalah, spilling of seed. Unfortunately, while condom use reduces symptoms of semen allergy, it does nothing to treat them.

Before advising your further, we suggest that you see a specialist in vaginal symptoms to be sure this is the correct diagnosis and to explore other methods of treatment including desensitization, antihistamine use or alternative therapies such as acupuncture. Then please get back to us when you have more information.

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