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Gestational Lyme is a controversial topic that has gained some popularity in recent time as more research and science come out about Lyme disease’s makeup. Many pregnant Lyme warriors and mothers have shared their stories of how their children have tested positive with the same strain of Lyme bacteria they have but without any of the exposure – how can this be? The answer they are looking to confirm is the maternal-fetal transmission.
Gestational Lyme is suspected to happen in the womb where the Lyme borreliosis bacteria enters and can cause harm to both the mother and the fetus. While the research is still hypothetical and in preliminary phases, it points to a possible connection to prenatal syphilis and birth complications. Medical experts advise pregnant women with Lyme to go on antibiotics and take caution with breastfeeding (as it is still under debate whether the bacteria can also be passed through breastmilk.)
Current research in Canada has been showing signs that Lyme bacteria can be transferred via the placenta. It goes even further by researching the possibility of sexual and blood transmission. This type of breakthrough could lead to more significant funding and medical development as it would explain why the number of Lyme cases is so high, yet many people claim to have never been bitten by a tick.
For more on gestational Lyme, tune in to our episode with Adina Bercowicz
Adina talks about her journey with Lyme disease and her understanding of gestational Lyme through her pregnancy. She know raised awareness for the Lyme community through her work in filmmaking.
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