Penis Allergies - Recognizing and Preventing Latex Reactions

In this day and age, sexual health is not something to be taken for granted. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) are, unfortunately, a reality all sexually active adults need to be aware of and take precautions against.

 The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates the incidence rate of new STI's in the United States to be around 20 million cases annually. About 50% of those cases are occurring in individuals ages 15-24, with the other half occurring in those 25 years and older. While these figures are staggering,

 using condoms can drastically reduce one's risk of transmitting such an infection. So what happens when doing the smart thing and using protection causes penis pain and discomfort? Unfortunately, penis allergies are a reality, so some men may need to find alternative methods of protection as part of their penis health care arsenal.

Condom Allergies: Are they for real?

While it may sound like a lame excuse to not use protection, some men - and women too - are legitimately allergic to latex. Lubricants, spermicides and diaphragms can also trigger allergic reactions in some unlucky individuals. A negative reaction to these products may be instantaneous in highly sensitive individuals, or they may appear a few hours later, leaving the unfortunate victim wondering what may have happened to their manhood.

What Are the Symptoms?

An allergic reaction on the genitals is about as unpleasant as it sounds. Some of the possible symptoms include:

• Breaking out in a rash in the genital area
• Hives/red blotches
• Itchy skin
• Burning sensation on any skin touched by the condom
• Skin is overly sensitive and may be painful to the touch
• Unexplained respiratory symptoms such as: coughing, wheezing, sneezing
• Sudden runny nose or nasal discharge
• Feelings of light-headedness
• Disorientation
• Anaphylactic shock - this only occurs in cases of extreme latex sensitivity

In addition, repeated exposure may trigger the occurrence of blisters, as the body's immune system tries to fight off the latex, and even men who have not previously had issues may develop a penis allergy over time.

A condom allergy may also lead to a urinary tract infection in some men. Symptoms of a UTI include:

• Burning during urination
• Itching
• Foul smelling urine
• Blood in urine

What to do if a latex allergy is suspected

Men who suspect they have a latex allergy should consult an allergist for testing to ensure the skin is reacting to the latex and not a different source. Since having unprotected sex drastically increases the risk of contracting an STI or resulting in an unplanned pregnancy, going au natural is not the best option. Men should seek out non-latex condoms in order to protect themselves - and their partners - from unwanted sexual side effects.

Two types of non-latex condoms exist as options for those allergic to latex. Synthetic condoms, made with polyurethane, are deemed to be as safe as latex condoms by the CDC. Lambskin condoms, also known as natural membrane condoms, are made from lamb cecum and do not contain latex. Natural membrane condoms are useful in preventing pregnancy, but it is important to note that the CDC and FDA has deemed them to be less effective in preventing the transmission of STI's including HIV/AIDS.

Caring for a Latex Allergy

If the allergic reaction is severe, is causing difficulty breathing, or is extremely painful, medical attention should be sought immediately. Anaphylactic shock can result in death if not treated immediately. Milder allergic reactions, though uncomfortable and unpleasant, should clear up on their own without any medical intervention. Washing the affected area with gentle soap and water is effective in removing the allergen and preventing prolonged exposure, which will worsen the reaction. Applying a penis health creme containing vitamins and minerals (most professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) can also help soothe red, irritated skin while revitalizing the penis. Select one that contains vitamin E to help hydrate and repair itchy skin and quickly provide some much needed relief to the area.

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Penis Care Essentials - Prepping the Package for Summertime Fun

Summertime is traditionally a time of sunshine, watersports and well-planned bouts of nudity. In a Hollywood movie, a man would be ready for anything that came his way, with no advance planning needed. In reality, the average guy needs to spend at least a little time getting ready for the changing seasons.

 By stocking up on summertime essentials and paying a little attention to penis care, men can watch the days lengthen with a sense of ease, knowing they've got everything well in hand for the fun that comes with summer.

Sun Safety Suggestions

Basking in the hot sun can be incredibly relaxing, and it's tempting to strip down to bare essentials in order to let those golden rays hit every ounce of waiting skin. Before stripping down, however, men should invest in a little protection. Experts suggest that a sunblock with an SPF of 30 is sufficient for most people, as it blocks about 96.7 percent of the harmful rays of the sun. All of this potential is wasted, however,

 if men apply only a tiny daub of lotion on their starving skin or skip their delicate parts altogether. Proper protection comes through a slathering motion, and that application should be repeated after a dip in the water or a soaking with sweat to protect the package and promote penis health.

Hydration Habits

Rising temperatures mean sweaty bodies and an increasing need for water. Those who scrimp on hydration can produce some truly stinky sweat, and the odors tend to be most intense around the penis. Those who want to end a day in the sun with a romp in the sheets might turn off their partners with their funky odors, and the night might end much too quickly as a result.

Water bottles made of stainless steel are fashionable, so they make an appropriate accessory for almost any outfit, and when they're filled with cool water, a drink is always handy. Each little sip can make the sweat a little less smelly, as well as protecting the body against tissue damage related to dehydration.

Shaving Safely

A hedge of hair can protect the penis from scratches and scrapes, but the nest can also trap odors and it tends to make swimsuits look just a little less attractive. A quick trim can help, and electric trimmers provide the safest route to good grooming. These tools have safety guards that can protect against nicks and cuts,

 and it's easy to set the tool to cut hair at a specific length to prevent an embarrassing hatchet job. A trim like this might need to be repeated at least once during the summertime, but the clean lines can make the work more than worthwhile.

Proper Protection

Summertime travel can lead to new romances, and slipping on a sheath is the best way to avoid contracting a communicable disease. There are a variety of condoms out there that can fit the bill, including condoms made of:

• Polyisoprene
• Polyurethane
• Latex
• Lambskin

Some are coated with spermicidal materials, others contain lubricants and still others are ribbed or flavored. A little experimentation can help a guy find the right fit, and stocking up can help him to be prepared when the evening takes a turn for the better.

Intimate Enhancement

During the winter months, heavy clothing, cold weather and lack of airflow can leave penis skin looking a little drab and dour, and the surface of this tool can be rough and scabbed. This equipment isn't ready for action, but turning around the situation may be as easy as investing in a quality penis nutrient creme (most experts recommend Man1 Man Oil). These products contain vitamins that can nourish starved tissues and reduce bacterial colonies. 

A quality product can also help to smooth and soften roughed up skin, so it'll be touchable and responsive, perfect for a test drive in the summertime.

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