Condoms are not a risk factor for sensitization to latex
Chen, F.Chih-Kang.; Büscher, U.; Niggemann, B.
Contraception 66(6): 439-441
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0010-7824 PMID: 12499037 DOI: 10.1016/s0010-7824(02)00409-2Document Number: 245337
The study was conducted to assess the prevalence of sensitization to latex in a group of women with a high risk for atopy and to determine whether the use of condoms is a relevant risk factor. In a prospective study, 100 atopic women (defined as having specific IgE to common aero- or nutritional allergens) were screened for specific IgE antibodies to latex after delivery: Ten of the 100 women (10%) showed specific IgE to latex. Total IgE concentrations were higher with a history of occupational exposure or of symptoms after contact with latex (p<0.05, and p<0.005, respectively), but condom users were not significantly more frequent in the latex-positive group. Our results indicate that prior use of condoms does not appear to be a specific risk factor for sensitization to latex in post-partum women at high-risk for atopy. Latex-free condoms should only be recommended to women already known to be sensitized to latex.