The following information will help men better understand latex allergy and their options for avoiding a reaction.

What is latex?

Latex is derived from the sap of a rubber tree. The material contains proteins that are harmless, but in some people – about 5-10% of the population, by some estimates – the immune system interprets one or more proteins in latex as a threat and triggers a response that can lead to skin itchiness and hives. Few people have severe reactions, but for these, it can be life-threatening.

How to tell if it’s a latex reaction?

If a man notices itchiness and perhaps redness and blotches on his member during, immediately after or soon after sensual activity with a latex barrier, then he should consider the barrier a likely cause. However, he should not jump to this conclusion without considering the following possibilities:

• Is he at risk for a partner-transmitted infection? Has he been tested recently?
• Does he have other symptoms, such as burning while urinating or unusual discharge, that might indicate a yeast infection?
• Does he tend to have dry skin on the male organ in general?
• Is this the only time this reaction has occurred?
• Could something else about the barrier have caused irritation? For example, does it contain seed-killer or a flavored/scented agent?

If a man has generally healthy male organ skin and has never had this reaction until using a latex barrier, the barrier is the likely culprit. If the barrier does not contain chemical additives for flavoring or killing seed, then the material is the probable cause of irritation.

Alternative materials?

Men with latex allergies have several options for protection. Note that latex barriers are by far the most popular, and one can’t expect potential partners to be equipped with the special barriers an allergic man needs. He should make sure to bring his own.

Polyisoprene is similar in cost and feel to latex, so people looking for an alternative barrier that is much like latex should try these out.

Polyurethane is another option; this material is thinner than latex, and it can transfer heat better. Some people find that this type of barrier provides a more pleasurable experience. Partners should be aware that the material is a bit more brittle than latex, and slightly more prone to breaking. Using lubricant can help prevent barrier breakages in general, and this is particularly true for polyurethane barriers.

Another option for non-latex barriers are those made of lambskin – the intestines of lambs. Though these barriers are considered to afford the most pleasurable sensations, they do not protect against partner-transmitted infections. So they should only be used by monogamous partners with very low infection risks and recent negative test results.

Avoiding materials to which a man’s member skin is sensitive, along with using protection, are two important components of maintaining male organ health. A man can further improve his skin condition by making use of a male organ health crème (health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil). This can help soothe itchy, dry manhood skin, whether from contact with an irritant or the frictions to which it is regularly exposed. Skin care is just as important for the male organ as for the rest of the body. Treat the manhood skin to a quality moisturizer like Man1 Man Oil for a better look and feel.

Visit http://www.menshealthfirst.com for additional information on most common male organ health issues, tips on improving organ sensitivity and what to do to maintain a healthy manhood. John Dugan is a professional writer who specializes in men’s health issues and is an ongoing contributing writer to numerous websites.

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