Latex allergies, and products, becoming more common
How To Tell If You're Allergic To Semen Because, Yep, That's A Thing
What puts someone at risk for either sensitivity in the first place isn't totally clear, just as we don't always know why some people are born with any other kind of allergy. And much like you can develop food or seasonal allergies later in life, it's possible to become hypersensitive to semen if you once weren't, or even to experience a reaction when having sex with one partner and not with another, though experts don't quite know why. Researchers think that certain events involving a hormonal change—like getting an IUD, having a hysterectomy, or going through menopause—might be involved for some.
There's also some evidence that people with a penis may react to their own semen—a condition called postorgasmic illness syndrome, which involves flu-like symptoms after ejaculation. But a 2023 study found that an allergic response (at least, one including the development of IgE antibodies) is probably not in play here, and psychological factors are more likely the culprit.
How do you know if you have a semen allergy?Unfortunately, a lot of things can leave your vagina raging, so it's easy to mistake a semen allergy for something else. The main sign is a painful burning sensation in or around your vagina and vulva that starts during or right after unprotected sex, Dr. Bernstein says. (It can last anywhere from a half hour to several hours.) You should also look out for any of the whole-body allergy symptoms above, like hives, wheezing, and so forth. An important note: You likely won't experience symptoms of a semen allergy if you wear a condom (and strangely, it's uncommon to get a rash around your mouth even if you have oral sex). If the pain only shows up when you do use a condom, a latex allergy could be to blame.
Another way to tell is by doing a little process of elimination, Alyssa Dweck, MD, FACOG, a New York–based gynecologist, tells SELF. She usually evaluates her patients for more common causes of vaginal pain first by looking for things like discharge (a symptom of both a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis, a.K.A. BV) and a fishy or foul odor (typical for BV and some STIs). From there, she'd also ask if they used any new product in that general vicinity—a lubricant, spermicide, douche, wipe, pad, massage oil, or body soap could also be the culprit of an allergic reaction, particularly if it's scented or dyed in any way, Dr. Dweck adds. If she can rule out all of the above, a semen allergy becomes a more likely trigger to consider, she says.
To officially get a diagnosis, though, you may need to see an allergist, who can do a skin prick test with proteins separated out from your partner's semen—yes, they'll need to provide a semen sample for it. (Basically, the doctor will use a tiny needle to introduce a small bit of the substance into your system, and if your skin reacts, it indicates an allergy.) But, as noted above, if you're one of the folks who experience a localized allergic reaction—your vagina reacts, but nothing else happens—you still might not respond to a skin test, at which point your doctor may also diagnose you by ruling out alternatives.
So what's the best way to deal with a semen allergy?The simplest thing you can do? Avoid making contact with the stuff by wearing a condom during sex (and by "during," we mean for the whole shebang, since precum is a thing). But in some scenarios, that's not ideal—the most obvious one being if you're trying to get pregnant, but also just if you can't (or don't want to!) use a condom for any reason.
What's Inside A Mattress And How Are They Made?
We all know what a mattress looks like on the outside, but have you ever wondered what's inside a mattress, and how it's actually made? While mattresses vary in size, color and materials externally, what's happening internally can have a huge impact on both your overall comfort levels and your sleep.
Whether it's steel coils, latex or memory foam, knowing what's inside a mattress and how it's constructed can help you identify what you're looking for in a new bed. If you are shopping for a new mattress, our guide to the best mattresses of 2024 include our top-rated mattresses to suit all sleep styles and budgets.
Here, we'll run through the main components of most modern mattresses, as well as outline a basic mattress construction. Let's get started.
The basic construction of a modern mattressThere are many different mattress types, with hybrids, memory foam and organic among the most popular. Each type of mattress is made from a different set of materials which contribute to their specific functions and uses. The principle skeleton, however, remains the same: a support base, a comfort layer and a cover enveloping the whole bed. Let's now take a closer look at the basic construction of a modern mattress:
The support core of a mattress forms the foundation and structure of your mattress. The support core is the base of the bed, located beneath the comfort layers. This is the primary part of the mattress responsible for stability, evenly distributing your weight and aligning your spine. The supportive core of a mattress can be provided by steel coils, dense foam, latex, air or water depending on the mattress type.
Comfort layersAs the name suggests, the comfort layers of a mattress is the element that provides the overall comfort of a mattress. The comfort layers are the top layers of a mattress and can be made from a wide variety of different materials, including memory foam, polyfoam, or natural latex fibers like latex, cotton and wool which can vary in depth, properties and benefits.
CoverAll mattresses contain a cover which encases it entirely. Mattress covers can range from soft to touch breathable fabric to specialist cooling fibers. While some mattress covers can be removed and washed, others are stitched to the comfort layer and cannot be taken off.
What is in a mattress?These are the common materials found in a modern mattress:
FoamWhether its the dense foam of a support core, a top layer of memory foam for body contouring or gel-infused foam for additional cooling, most mattresses contain foam somewhere. Memory foam in particular is known to be great for those looking for joint pain relief and perfect body alignment. New versions of foam mattresses are highly responsive with excellent bounceback and motion isolation. Their biggest disadvantage, however, is how they retain more heat compared to other materials, so if you're a hot sleeper, it's better to turn the other way.
Steel coils
Steel coils are the key component of innerspring mattresses and hybrid mattresses. The coil system offers solid support for the spine. They are either arranged open or individually wrapped (called pocketed coils). Coil mattresses are usually preferred by sleepers who love the bounce and need full body pressure relief.
CottonUsed both inside and outside of a mattress, this all-natural plant fiber dates back to the fifth millennium B.C. It is known for being highly durable and for allowing air to circulate around, so you can sleep cooler.
WoolMattresses with wool are ideal to be used all-year round with its incredible ability to regulate temperature, while also providing padding for extra comfort. Many of the best organic mattresses use sustainably sourced, certified organic wool within their construction.
Latex
Latex forms long-lasting mattresses offering excellent pressure relief, cooling and firmness. Latex mattresses are also incredibly durable (a well-cared for latex mattress can last up to 20 years) and naturally hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for those with allergies.
PolyesterPolyester is a cost-effective and durable material, which is why you'll find it within the upholstery of many of the best cheap mattresses. Polyester is a synthetic resin used in a range of fabric blends along with cotton and spandex. Polyester is often synonymous with 'budget', but it's breathable, recyclable and hypoallergenic.
Fire retardantsAll mattresses are required to have a flame retardant layer to meet safety standards, which act as a barrier against open fire exposure for a period of time. Fire retardants in mattresses vary like latex, wool, graphite, silica or rayon but fiberglass is a common fire retardant in some cheaper mattresses. Here's our guide on how to check if your mattress contains fiberglass.
How mattresses are made: Traditional vs bed in a box
Flat mattresses hauled in through your front door ready to be slept on are the traditional varieties, while those that arrive rolled up in a box are, as their name suggests, mattresses in a box. The latter option is a relatively new method of mattress construction and involves a mattress being compressed with specialist technology. The best mattresses in a box tend to be more affordable than traditional mattresses, but ultimately depends on the mattress materials used and quality of the build.
In contrast, traditional, flat mattresses are made by sewing, quilting, assembling the core, and then finishing the exterior. Sometimes this method is done by machine, while some premium mattresses, such as the Saatva Classic, are handcrafted. If you're unsure which mattress type to opt for, take a look at our tradition vs mattress in a box comparison piece.
9 Evidence-Based Aloe Vera Benefits, According To A Registered Dietitian
For centuries, people have used aloe vera, both topically and orally, to treat various conditions such as acne, rashes, burns, weight loss, diabetes, hepatitis, and digestive issues.
Aloe vera benefits likely stem from the bioactive compounds—vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants, and proteins—found mainly in its leaves and inner gel.
Aloe barbadensis is the most commonly used and researched aloe species. This perennial plant, which belongs to the Xanthorrhoeaceae family, thrives in hot, dry climates.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements like prescription drugs. This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN or RD), or pharmacist.
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It Has Anti-Inflammatory Effects Studies suggest aloe vera benefits inflammation. Lab studies demonstrated aloe vera's anti-inflammatory effects. Bioactive aloe vera compounds such as aloesin, aloin, and emodin may contribute to these effects by disrupting pro-inflammatory substances and suppressing inflammation. Because of these properties, aloe vera may help with inflammatory conditions, such as the pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In animal and lab studies, aloe vera reduced inflammation caused by colitis, a condition marked by colon inflammation. It may change how specific genes and cells (cytokines) react to inflammation. Human studies are needed to confirm these results. It Contains Nutrients and Antioxidants Aloe vera is a rich source of important nutrients. Over 75 different nutrients, including enzymes, fatty acids, mono- and polysaccharides, antioxidants, and various phytonutrients (plant substances with perceived health benefits), have been identified in aloe vera. Aloe vera contains vitamins and minerals such as the following: Antioxidants in aloe vera, such as vitamins A, C, and E, prevent or reduce unstable molecules called free radicals. Other antioxidants present in aloe vera include carotenoids and polyphenols. The antioxidants present in aloe vera may protect human cells from damage. One human study concluded that supplementing with aloe vera gel extract increased total antioxidant activity in the body. Aloe vera contains additional bioactive compounds, including salicylic acid, proteins, and amino acids. Salicylic acid is touted as a natural skin remedy with antifungal and exfoliant properties. Of note, aloe also contains anthraquinones with laxative effects and potential toxicity concerns. It May Help Inflammatory Bowel Disease Due to its known anti-inflammatory effects, research and interest in aloe vera for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has grown. IBD is a chronic condition in which parts of the digestive tract become inflamed and, in some cases, damaged. The two most common types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties of aloe vera may be responsible for the plant's potential role as a complementary treatment for IBD. In an animal study, aloe vera gel had protective effects against UC. The gel also promoted healing and reduced inflammation, ulcers, and damage in the colon. More research in humans is necessary to determine whether aloe vera will help people with IBD. It May Lower Blood Sugar Evidence suggests that aloe vera supplements may work as a natural remedy for high blood sugar. According to limited research, oral aloe vera may improve blood sugar control in people with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Researchers believe that aloe vera may reduce the absorption of glucose (sugar) after a meal, leading to lower blood sugar. Aloe vera may also increase the breakdown of glucose. It significantly reduced fasting blood sugar and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) in people with untreated diabetes compared to a placebo. However, more extensive human research is necessary to better understand aloe vera's effectiveness on blood sugar. It May Promote Fat Loss Herbs and supplements are popular approaches to weight management. Aloe vera gel may have lipid-lowering and anti-obesity effects that may help people lose weight. Much of the research on aloe vera for fat loss is dated or mostly only in animals. In an animal study, a fermented aloe vera gel beverage reduced weight gain and fat accumulation in mice fed a high-fat diet. The aloe vera's high content of polyphenols and flavonoids may be responsible. In other studies, these antioxidants have been linked to decreased fat accumulation. A similar study found that aloe vera gel supplementation reduced body fat accumulation in rats. Researchers found the gel corrected dyslipidemia and oxidative stress, two factors that may contribute to obesity. Though we can learn from animal studies, more human research is necessary. It May Help GERD Aloe vera gel may improve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic digestive disease. People with GERD often experience heartburn, indigestion, and trouble swallowing that must be continuously treated with medication or lifestyle changes. However, some research shows that aloe vera gel contains natural anti-ulcer, wound-healing, and antimicrobial properties that may benefit people with GERD. A small study compared the effectiveness of aloe vera gel syrup to two common GERD medications: omeprazole and ranitidine. At the end of the four-week trial, the aloe vera gel syrup was comparable to the two medications in reducing GERD symptoms. However, it did have less effect on reducing the frequency of both heartburn and flatulence than omeprazole and ranitidine. Few other studies have been conducted on the effects of aloe vera on GERD symptoms. More research is necessary. It May Promote Skin Health Topical aloe vera has been used to treat a variety of skin conditions for centuries. One of the earlier uses of aloe vera was for wound healing. Research shows that compounds in aloe vera reduce inflammation caused by wounds. Magnesium lactate, a substance found in aloe vera gel, is also thought to prevent histamine production, leading to less skin itching and irritation. Aloe vera may also help other skin conditions, like acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis. According to one review, topical aloe vera may reduce acute dermatitis caused by cancer radiation treatment. This reduction may be due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Bioactive substances in aloe vera, including aloe emodin and salicylic acid, have known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and immunity-enhancing properties that may be useful for treating psoriasis. These substances may improve redness and scaling associated with psoriasis. However, few studies have been conducted. Aloe vera combined with other herbs or substances may also benefit acne treatment. However, more research is necessary to determine if aloe vera alone can treat acne. It May Soothe Minor Burns For some people, aloe vera is a go-to treatment for certain types of burns, including first- and second-degree burns. Research suggests aloe vera may reduce recovery time, help prevent infection, and reduce itching. An analysis of scientific studies concluded that topical aloe vera is an effective treatment for second-degree burns compared to standard treatments. Though researchers are unsure exactly how aloe vera works to heal burns, some evidence suggests that it increases the production of skin-healing cells and proteins. Another analysis found similar results regarding burn healing and examined aloe vera's effects on pain and infection associated with burns. Though researchers could not determine how aloe vera affects burn-related pain, they found that topical aloe vera doesn't increase the risk of infection. Avoid aloe vera for severe burns, like third-degree burns, and seek immediate medical care. It May Help Mouth Sores Aloe vera gel may help treat mouth sores by speeding up healing and reducing pain and swelling. Compared to other treatments, topical aloe vera applied directly to mouth sores (sometimes called mouth ulcers) is thought to shorten healing time. Aloe vera gel is also thought to be similar to other treatments for pain management. Similarly, aloe vera mouthwash reduced the severity of oral mucositis, a condition that causes ulcers and inflammation inside the mouth. In one small study, aloe vera mouthwash was compared to benzydamine mouthwash as a treatment for radiation-induced mucositis in people with cancer. Aloe vera mouthwash was as effective as benzydamine mouthwash at treating mucositis. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. How Much Aloe Vera Is Good for Me? There is no standard or recommended dosage of aloe vera in any form. As a rule of thumb, start with the lowest dose and increase gradually if necessary. Avoid exceeding the manufacturer's recommended dose. Aloe vera products taken by mouth include fresh aloe sap, capsules, extracts, gels, powders, and juices. Precautions Although aloe vera is considered safe for most people. However, some may need to take specific precautions, such as the following: Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to aloe vera. However, an aloe vera allergy is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as itching, hives, or shortness of breath. Side effects: When taken by mouth or applied to the skin, whole aloe vera leaf extract and its latex may cause diarrhea, cramping, skin irritation, or hives. Side effects may be more likely if you use too much or chronically. Interactions: Aloe vera may interact with other supplements or with certain medications. These include blood thinners, diabetes medications, and digoxin. Other interactions may be possible. Latex precaution: The latex from the aloe vera plant leaf may be unsafe when taken in high doses. Aloe vera latex has strong laxative effects, which may cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, hypokalemia (low potassium), other electrolyte imbalances, and kidney damage. Aloe vera latex may also cause uterine contractions in those who are pregnant, as well as diarrhea in nursing infants. Oral aloe vera latex may improve constipation symptoms. However, in 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of aloe vera latex as an ingredient in nonprescription laxatives due to safety concerns. Prolonged use of aloe vera latex has been linked to diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, electrolyte imbalance, and changes in the anatomy of the colon. Summary Aloe vera is a medicinal plant used for centuries for various health conditions. Some evidence suggests that aloe vera may help with inflammation, high blood sugar, obesity, GERD, certain skin conditions, burns, and mouth sores. For most people, aloe vera is safe to use. However, aloe vera may cause side effects, allergic reactions, or drug interactions in some people. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn if aloe vera suits you.
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