Allergy and Sexual Behaviours: an Update.

Area of Science:

• Allergology
• Sexual Health
• Immunology

Background:

• Allergic diseases, including respiratory and skin allergies, food, and drug allergies, significantly affect patients' quality of life and sexual function.
• Allergic conditions can impact sexual function through both physical and psychological mechanisms, leading to considerable patient complaints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the relationship between allergies and sexual behaviors.
• To highlight the importance of considering allergic diseases in the context of sexual health and vice versa.

Main Methods:

• This is a review article, summarizing existing literature on allergy and sexual behaviors.
• The review synthesizes information on how sexual behaviors can trigger or mediate allergic reactions and how allergens can be transmitted during sexual activity.

Main Results:

• Sexual behaviors can act as triggers for allergic reactions or as vehicles for allergen transmission via bodily fluids (saliva, semen).
• Common allergens include latex (condoms), lubricants, spermicides, topical medications, cosmetics, and seminal fluid proteins (in seminal plasma hypersensitivity).
• Respiratory allergies can be exacerbated by sexual activity, leading to symptoms like 'honeymoon asthma'.

Conclusions:

• Allergic diseases significantly influence sexual quality of life and require careful clinical attention.
• Sexual behaviors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hypersensitivity reactions.
• Increased awareness among healthcare professionals regarding these exposure routes is crucial for effective patient management.