Indeed, latex allergy is quite common and can actually become dangerous (like any other allergy). Your boyfriend needs to stop using condoms and you will need to find an alternative birth control method (perhaps the Mirena?) The protein in rubber can cause an allergic reaction in some people. The thin, stretchy latex rubber in gloves, condoms and balloons is high in this protein. It causes more allergic reactions than products made of hard rubber (like tires).
Latex allergy can be mild or severe, with symptoms such as:
- Itchy, red, watery eyes
- Sneezing or runny nose
- Coughing
- Rash or hives
- Chest tightness and shortness of breath
- Shock
Some people who wear latex gloves get bumps, sores, cracks or red, raised areas on their hands. These symptoms usually appear 12 to 36 hours after contact with latex. Changing to non-latex gloves, using glove liners, and paying more attention to hand care can help relieve these symptoms.
A latex-sensitive person can also have a life-threatening allergic reaction with no previous warning or symptoms.
Health care workers and rubber industry workers seem to have the highest risk for latex allergy. Health care workers with hay fever have an especially high chance of developing a latex allergy, as 25 percent of all health care workers with hay fever show signs of being latex sensitized. People also at risk are those who have had many operations, especially in childhood, and people with spina bifida and urologic abnormalities.
Latex products are everywhere. Anyone can become allergic to latex.
Information about latex allergy from the American Academy of Family Physicians:
familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/common/allergies/basics/254.html