Why do bedbugs bite women? - briefly
Bedbugs are drawn to higher body temperature and greater carbon‑dioxide emission, traits that can be more pronounced in women, especially during pregnancy or due to hormonal variations, resulting in more frequent bites. They also respond to skin chemicals that are often present at higher levels in females.
Why do bedbugs bite women? - in detail
Bedbugs locate hosts by detecting carbon‑dioxide, heat, and body odor. Several biological and behavioral factors make female hosts more attractive to these insects.
Female bodies often emit higher levels of certain volatile compounds, such as lactic acid and skin‑derived fatty acids, which are strong attractants for hematophagous arthropods. Hormonal fluctuations, especially elevated estrogen and progesterone during menstrual cycles or pregnancy, can alter skin chemistry, increasing the concentration of these volatiles.
Skin microbiota differ between sexes. Studies show that women typically host a greater diversity of bacteria that produce metabolites favored by bedbugs, enhancing the chemical signature that the insects follow.
Thermal cues also play a role. On average, women have a slightly higher peripheral skin temperature than men, providing a more pronounced heat source for the insects’ infrared sensors.
Blood‑type distribution contributes to the pattern. Type O blood, which is more common among women in many populations, lacks A and B antigens that can deter feeding, making it a preferred source of nutrients for the bugs.
Behavioral habits affect exposure. Women often wear looser or longer clothing that may conceal bites, allowing insects to feed longer before being detected. Additionally, sleeping arrangements—such as sharing beds or using soft bedding—can increase contact time with the parasite.
A summarized set of factors:
- Chemical attractants: increased lactic acid, fatty acids, and hormone‑derived scents.
- Microbial profile: richer skin‑bacterial communities producing favorable metabolites.
- Thermal signature: marginally higher skin temperature.
- Blood‑type prevalence: higher incidence of type O blood.
- Clothing and sleeping patterns: greater concealment and prolonged exposure.
These elements interact, creating a net bias toward female hosts, though bedbugs are opportunistic and will bite any available person. Understanding the multifactorial nature of host selection helps in developing targeted prevention and control strategies.