Is Lyme Disease Sexually Transmitted?

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. The disease typically causes fever headache fatigue a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated the infection can spread to joints heart nervous system leading to severe complications.

Theories about sexual transmission of Lyme disease

There have been some reports suggesting that Lyme disease can be transmitted sexually from an infected person to their partner. The theory is based on the fact that the bacteria that cause Lyme disease can reside in various body fluids including semen vaginal secretions. In theory if one partner is infected the other partner can get infected through sexual contact. However the scientific evidence to support this theory is limited controversial.

Scientific studies on sexual transmission of Lyme disease

Several studies have been conducted to investigate the possibility of sexual transmission of Lyme disease. In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine researchers found that Lyme disease bacteria can be detected in the genital secretions of infected men women. However the study did not prove that the bacteria were viable capable of causing infection. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology in 2015 found no evidence of sexual transmission of Lyme disease in a cohort of 261 heterosexual couples.

Conclusion

Based on the currently available evidence it seems unlikely that Lyme disease is primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Ticks remain the main source of transmission individuals who live in or visit areas with a high tick population should take precautions such as using insect repellent protective clothing conducting tick checks after being in wooded or grassy areas. If you suspect you have been bitten by a tick seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis treatment.

References

1. Johnson TL Graham CB. Lyme Disease: Diagnosis Management. Am Fam Phys. 2013;89(6):385-390.

2. Stricker RB Johnson L. Lyme disease: the next decade. Infect Drug Resist. 2011;4:1-9.

3. Middelveen MJ Bandoski C Burke J et al. Detection of Borrelia spirochetes in genital secretions of patients with Lyme disease. Infect Dis Clin Pract. 2014;22(9):e103-e107.

4. Marangoni A Moroni A Accardo S et al. No Evidence of Borrelia miyamotoi Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato (Spirochetes) in the Vaginal Secretions of Women With or Without a History of Lyme Borreliosis. J Clin Microbiol. 2015;53(5):1695-1697.