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Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy
Plus, when to call 999 after an allergic reaction LOVE HURTS Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) ITCHY genitals, a burning sensation, and feeling breathless are all considered normal after sex. But for a growing number of women, these symptoms could be a sign of seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) - an allergy to semen. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 1 A growing number of women could suffer with a semen allergy Credit: Getty While it's considered a rare allergy, it's also underdiagnosed. And Michael Carroll, associate professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University, explains it isn't triggered by sperm cells, but the fluid that carried the sperm. He said: "First documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalised after a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex, SPH is now recognised as a type 1 hypersensitivity, the same category as hay fever, peanut allergy and cat dander." Writing for The Conversation, Carroll says symptoms of SPH can range from mild to severe. Read more on sex A DROUGHT The sex position & tips that will keep you cool whilst you're getting heated While some women experience local reactions, such as burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina, others develop full-body symptoms, like hives, wheezing, and even anaphylaxis. He added: "Until 1977, SPH was thought to affect fewer than 100 women globally. "But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein found among women reporting postcoital symptoms, nearly 12 per cent could be classified as having probable SPH. "I conducted a small, unpublished survey in 2013 and found a similar 12 per cent rate. The true figure may be higher still. "Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections, or general 'sensitivity'. "One revealing clue: symptoms disappear when condoms are used." Grand Designs' 'most ambitious project EVER' as parents build incredible allergy-proof 'healthy house' to protect kids The main allergen, according to Carroll, is prostate-specific antigen - a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. And cross-reactivity is a possibility, for example, f5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to PSA. So a woman allergic to dogs may also be allergic to semen too. Also, woman may not be the only ones affected, said Carroll. It's possible some men be allergic to their own semen too. A paper published in American Journal of Case Reports described a 22-year-old was consumed by sneezing, watery eyes, stomach cramps, muscle pain and deep fatigue in the hours after climaxing. The condition is known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS). While SPH doesn't cause infertility directly, it can complicate conception. Carroll said: "Avoiding the allergen – usually the most effective treatment for allergies – isn't feasible for couples trying to conceive. Treatments include prophylactic antihistamines (antihistamine medications taken in advance of anticipated exposure to an allergen, or before allergy symptoms are expected to appear to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions), anti-inflammatories and desensitisation using diluted seminal plasma. In more severe cases, couples may choose IVF with washed sperm, bypassing the allergic trigger altogether.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Itching, swelling and burning after sex may be signs of a surprisingly common allergy
ITCHY genitals, a burning sensation, and feeling breathless are all considered normal after sex. But for a growing number of women, these symptoms could be a sign of seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH) - an allergy to semen. While it's considered a rare allergy, it's also underdiagnosed. And Michael Carroll, associate professor in reproductive science at Manchester Metropolitan University, explains it isn't triggered by sperm cells, but the fluid that carried the sperm. He said: "First documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalised after a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex, SPH is now recognised as a type 1 hypersensitivity, the same category as hay fever, peanut allergy and cat dander." Writing for The Conversation, Carroll says symptoms of SPH can range from mild to severe. While some women experience local reactions, such as burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina, others develop full-body symptoms, like hives, wheezing, and even anaphylaxis. He added: "Until 1977, SPH was thought to affect fewer than 100 women globally. "But a study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein found among women reporting postcoital symptoms, nearly 12 per cent could be classified as having probable SPH. "I conducted a small, unpublished survey in 2013 and found a similar 12 per cent rate. The true figure may be higher still. "Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections, or general 'sensitivity'. "One revealing clue: symptoms disappear when condoms are used." Grand Designs' 'most ambitious project EVER' as parents build incredible allergy-proof 'healthy house' to protect kids The main allergen, according to Carroll, is prostate-specific antigen - a protein produced by cells in the prostate gland. And cross-reactivity is a possibility, for example, f5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to PSA. So a woman allergic to dogs may also be allergic to semen too. Also, woman may not be the only ones affected, said Carroll. It's possible some men be allergic to their own semen too. A paper published in American Journal of Case Reports described a 22-year-old was consumed by sneezing, watery eyes, stomach cramps, muscle pain and deep fatigue in the hours after climaxing. The condition is known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS). While SPH doesn't cause infertility directly, it can complicate conception. Carroll said: "Avoiding the allergen – usually the most effective treatment for allergies – isn't feasible for couples trying to conceive. Treatments include prophylactic antihistamines (antihistamine medications taken in advance of anticipated exposure to an allergen, or before allergy symptoms are expected to appear to prevent or reduce the severity of allergic reactions), anti-inflammatories and desensitisation using diluted seminal plasma. In more severe cases, couples may choose IVF with washed sperm, bypassing the allergic trigger altogether. When to call 999 after an allergic reaction Call 999 if: your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air) your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet) you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy someone faints and cannot be woken up a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face) You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised or itchy. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
BBC News
4 days ago
- Business
- BBC News
Hotspur Press building left a smoking ruin after major Manchester fire
A building on the site of what was believed to be Manchester's oldest mill is now a smouldering ruin after a major Hotspur Press building on Cambridge Street, close to Manchester Oxford Road railway station, was destroyed by a fire on Monday, leading to its partial collapse. The Victorian structure had fallen into a dilapidated state since the printing press closed down in 1996, and stood in contrast with some of the modern city blocks surrounding it. However, despite a number of delays, it had been earmarked for a major development scheme. Opened in the 1800s on the banks of the River Medlock, the building started life as a cotton mill, known as Medlock Mill. It was later repurposed as a printing press in 1902, and remained in business for 94 years. After years of failed attempts to redevelop the site, London-based developer Manner took on the building in 2020, and began working on new plans. Last May, the firm was given planning permission from Manchester City Council to turn the building into a 37 storey, 595 bed block of student flats. But the scheme was delayed after Manner twice changed its designs, and earlier this month said it was planning to submit fresh proposals to the council. The firm had vowed to "draw on the historical roots of the site" for the project, which would have involved some of the original building being demolished. While the original application for planning permission was granted, it attracted opposition from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) over the lack of affordable units. MMU had told councillors it had concerns that less than 20% of units would have been available at a discounted rent and also "the predominance of studio units which are less affordable than cluster units". But in a report to the planning committee, council officials also wrote it was estimated the development would add £3.6m to the local economy. The report, in May 2024, added: "This proposal would redevelop a derelict and vacant, low quality brownfield site close to the Oxford Road Corridor." The proposed student tower was initially intended to be clad in redbrick panels, but that was changed earlier this year to be anodised metal, appearing to be had since revised its plans for the building to include a bronze finish on the firm denied the change was related to its profit margins, with Manner boss Richard James telling the BBC in June that the firm "wanted to listen and take on board feedback".Manner has confirmed it is aware of the fire but has yet to comment further. GMFRS said on Monday evening it had deployed 20 fire engines to the fire, including two aerial units. It said the fire spread to a neighbouring apartment building,1 Cambridge Street, which was evacuated. An investigation into the cause of the fire was expected to begin on Tuesday. Listen to the best of BBC Radio Manchester on BBC Sounds and follow BBC Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram, and watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer.
Daily Mail
5 days ago
- Daily Mail
'No charges laid' after British woman, 23, was shot dead 'by another person' at her father's US home
'No charges have been laid' for the death of British woman who was shot dead 'by another person' at her father's home in the US. A manslaughter investigation was launched in February after Lucy Harrison, 23, from Warrington, Cheshire, was killed at the house in Prosper, Texas, on January 10. Coroners found she died of a gunshot wound to the chest and she 'was shot by another person' from a 'medium range'. The former Manchester Metropolitan University student died later that day at 3.47pm local time (9.47pm GMT). The autopsy was carried out at 9.10am on January 13. An inquest was opened into her death at Warrington Coroners Court on Wednesday, February 12. A written report following the inquest opening said: 'Ms Harrison was on holiday in the USA when she has been fatally shot with a firearm.' Now, a spokesperson for Prosper Police Department has told the Liverpool Echo the case had gone through the courts in the US with 'no prosecution'. An autopsy report from Chester Gwin, MD assistant county medical examiner for Collin County, found she died as a result of a single gunshot wound fired by another person. It also confirmed Lucy tested negative for alcohol and drugs and was pronounced dead at the Baylor Scott and White Medical Centre in Texas on January 10. She was visiting her father, Kris Harrison, who lives in Texas and is believed to have family in Southport. Lucy had been due to fly back to Manchester on the day she was shot after spending Christmas in the States. A tribute from Lucy's mother and boyfriend, released by Cheshire Police, said: 'Lucy was life. She lived it fiercely and fearlessly, not being afraid to feel all that life has to offer. Lucy unashamedly loved – she had a huge capacity to love and be loved. 'She was the embodiment of wonderful contradictions; she adored travel and being away, experiencing new places and cultures, yet at the same time, she loved nothing more than snuggling up in her pyjamas with her candles on at home. 'She could be dramatic and elaborate situations like it was the end of the world, yet she could also be straight talking and not afraid to have bold conversations. 'She was truly thriving in life and although this gives us great comfort, we are utterly heartbroken at the loss of our beautiful, gorgeous Luce.' An inquest hearing is set to take place at Cheshire Coroner's Court on Museum Street, Warrington on October 29. Following her death in February, Prosper police identified a suspect and five witnesses. A heavily-redacted police report from the Prosper Police Department at the time confirmed the case was being investigated as a 'criminally negligent homicide'. The document, which was seen by MailOnline, said a 'suspect' had been identified in the case, as well as five witnesses, two of whom are minors. Social media posts show Lucy on holiday with her father Kris Harrison over the Christmas period. Kris used to work in Saudi Arabia but is now employed by a fibre-optic firm in the States, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The Mancunian Way: Dirty old town
Hilary Judd had a life that was a picture of suburban bliss in Manchester. The 46-year-old mum has called Manchester home for 20 years, building a career lecturing at Manchester Metropolitan University. She started a family in Whalley Range with her partner and they have two sons, Arthur and a six-year-old Dessie. But now, something invisible is now making her and Dessie's lives harder — so much so she's considering leaving Manchester altogether. Three weeks ago, he was caught unable to catch a breath, and Hilary is wondering if Manchester is the right place to bring up her children. You can read the full piece from Ethan Davies here. READ MORE: "I can't change it, but wow am I paying for it": Mum gets STUCK in Turkey after making 'worst mistake of my life' in hotel room while drunk with boyfriend READ MORE: Chelsee Healey watches on in court as her boyfriend is jailed over 'serious' criminal operation The phrase 'dynamic pricing' has rarely been out of the headlines since Oasis tickets went on sale last summer. Fans of the Gallagher brothers watched on in horror as they were forced to make a quick choice between splashing cash that would get you a pretty nice holiday or watching their chance to attend a gig of a lifetime slip away - all while the Ticketmaster timer ticked on menacingly in the background. But it turns out that ticketing isn't the only concept dynamic pricing has been applied to. At sports bar The Director's Box in Manchester city centre, punters have been asked to stump up an extra few quid for a pint during busy times including the Europa League final. When one customer ordered one pint of Birra Moretti lager and one pint of Beavertown Neck Oil IPA during the fixture, his bill came to £15.80. But when the M.E.N.'s Ste Topping visited on Wednesday evening (June 11) to make the same order, the bill came to £13.80 in total. You can read his full story here. It's already a hit in London and now it's coming up to Manchester - thanks in part to Gary Neville. Grind said they had been searching for their perfect home in the city, and it came thanks to the former Manchester United star. Opening in the new St. Michael's development, neatly in between Manchester Town Hall and Deansgate, Adam Maidment has the first look at the coffee and cocktail spot. You can read it here. After a week of beautiful sunshine in Greater Manchester we must pay our penance and have a thunderstorm. The Met Office have issued a 13-hour thunderstorm warning from 3pm on Saturday to 4am on Sunday. Ahead of the extreme heat, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued rare amber heat-health alerts across the whole of England, which will remain in place until 9am on Monday (June 23). The UKHSA warns that the whole health service is "likely" to be impacted by high temperatures, with a "rise in deaths" expected. You can read more here. Whether you agree or find it laughable, parts of Manchester have drawn comparisons to New York on more than one occasion. And recently our tourism writer Liv Clarke went to see the Big Apple for herself. While there she went to see the High Line, the 1.45-mile-long linear park which follows the route of the former New York Centre Railroad spur. It was the inspiration for Manchester's Castlefield Viaduct park, which like the High Line, breathed new life into an unused piece of railway infrastructure, transforming a 150m section of the grade-II listed viaduct into a green can read her thoughts on the comparison here. You can sign up to receive the latest email newsletter direct to your inbox every weekday by clicking on this link. Saturday: Yellow weather warning for thunderstorms. 29C. Roadworks: A34 Pendleton Way in both directions closed due to roadworks from A538 (Prestbury Roundabout, Wilmslow) to B5359 Wilmslow Road (Harden Park Roundabout, Alderley Edge). Safeguarding: A 'rapid review of child safeguarding practice' has been ordered following the death of a mother and daughter in Salford. More here. Turkey nightmare: A mum has been stuck in Turkey for weeks on end and has been hit with a huge bill after making the 'worst mistake of her life' while drunk in a hotel room with her boyfriend. More here. Murder charge: A man has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a 'loving' mum in north Manchester. Clare Burns, 51, was found dead at a flat on Queens Road, in Collyhurst, in the early hours of Monday April 7. More here. This week we said goodbye to the queen of clean Kim Woodburn. For years the larger-than-life telly personality has given us viral moment after viral moment, from her quick-witted outbursts in the Celebrity Big Brother house, to her no-nonsense approach at telling people just how grim their homes really were on How Clean Is Your House? Love her or loathe her, the M.E.N's James Holt has penned this heartfelt obit about Kim's fierce allyship to the LGBTQ+ community and just why she has meant so much to so many. You can read it here.
