SEX AND CONTRACEPTION: WHAT CAUSES PROBLEMS?

Posted on Thursday, April 2nd, 2009 at 6:09 am

Any symptom can result from reaction to things used in connection with sex and contraception, including the classic symptoms of allergy, such as asthma and rhinitis, and the symptoms of chemical sensitivity. Most commonly, however, localised symptoms result, on the genitals, anus and surrounding skin and tissues, plus urinary symptoms and, for women, inflammation or pain in the pelvic region. Dermatitis can also be connected to sexual activity, especially around the mouth, neck, lower face and upper thighs.

There are three main categories of causes. The first, and most common, is chemicals used by you or your partner as toiletries, personal hygiene, or cosmetics; as laundry agents; or on products such as sanitary towels, tampons or incontinence protection. You may be sensitive to things that you use, or that your partner has used. They may be things that you tolerate well unless you have contact in an intimate area. Sweat and friction increase the likelihood of reaction – they make the skin and tissues more permeable and more likely to absorb chemicals. So, for instance, a soap powder or deodorant that normally does not bother you, may make you react where you have intimate contact.

Drugs or ointments that you are taking to treat these symptoms, or some other condition, can also cause genitourinary symptoms. Take medical advice on whether to discontinue these.

*374\117\8*