Gonzalez explained that pregnant women emit higher levels of carbon dioxide and other volatile compounds, which attract the insects. The research team monitored mosquito landing rates on pregnant and non-pregnant participants in a controlled environment, and the preliminary findings suggest that pregnancy-related physiological changes alter skin odor and breath composition. However, the exact chemical identity and the mosquito species studied remain undisclosed.
Dr. John Abrams, a vector biologist at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, cautioned that more evidence is needed before drawing firm conclusions, but noted the potential significance for mosquito-borne disease prevention.