New Study Finds Lyme Can Transmit from Mother to Child

Peer-reviewed research raises concerns about Lyme disease spreading during pregnancy.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:57am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An ethereal, X-ray-like image showing the translucent outline of a fetus within a mother's womb, the internal structures glowing faintly to conceptually represent the potential for Lyme disease transmission.New research raises concerns about the risk of Lyme disease spreading from mother to child during pregnancy.Portola Valley Today

A new peer-reviewed study has found evidence that Lyme disease can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy. The research, published in a leading medical journal, raises serious concerns about the potential for Lyme to spread between generations and the need for greater awareness and screening among expectant mothers.

Why it matters

Lyme disease is a growing public health issue, with cases increasing across the United States. If the findings of mother-to-child transmission are confirmed, it could significantly impact prenatal care protocols and require new guidelines for testing and treatment of Lyme during pregnancy.

The details

The study, conducted by researchers at several leading universities and medical centers, analyzed data from hundreds of pregnant women and their newborns. The results showed that in a significant number of cases, Lyme-causing bacteria were able to cross the placental barrier and infect developing fetuses. This raises the possibility of congenital Lyme disease, where the illness is present at birth.

  • The study was published in the April 2026 issue of a major medical journal.
  • Researchers collected data over a 3-year period from 2022 to 2025.

The players

Bay Area Lyme Foundation

A non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of Lyme disease.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“These findings underscore the urgent need for greater awareness and screening of Lyme disease during pregnancy. We must do more to protect expectant mothers and their unborn children.”

— Linda Giampa, Executive Director, Bay Area Lyme Foundation

What’s next

Medical experts say the study's results will likely prompt new clinical guidelines for prenatal Lyme testing and treatment protocols. Further research is also expected to explore the long-term health impacts on children born with congenital Lyme.

The takeaway

This study adds to the growing body of evidence that Lyme disease poses significant risks beyond the initial tick bite, with the potential to impact the next generation. It highlights the critical importance of early detection and comprehensive care for those affected by this complex illness.