Does human sperm attract bed bugs?

There is no scientific evidence that human sperm attracts bed bugs, and this is a myth that has circulated online without support from entomology research. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth, carbon dioxide exhaled by humans, body heat, and certain chemicals in human sweat and skin such as lactic acid, but not to semen or sexual fluids specifically. Studies on bed bug host seeking behavior show they are attracted to CO2 and heat as primary cues to locate hosts sleeping in beds, and they feed on blood, not semen. While bodily fluids may contain proteins, bed bugs do not have receptors that specifically attract them to sperm, and they do not feed on it. The myth may arise from confusion about bed bugs being found in beds where sexual activity occurs, but that is because beds are where hosts sleep and provide regular blood meals, not because of sperm. Bed bugs are found in beds regardless of sexual activity, including in children's beds and hotel beds. To prevent bed bugs, focus on proven attractants, encase mattress and box spring in bed bug proof encasements, use interceptor traps under bed legs, wash bedding weekly on high heat, vacuum mattress seams regularly, and inspect second hand furniture. Professional heat treatment is most effective for elimination, not concern about sperm. If you have concerns about hygiene, washing bedding after sexual activity is good hygiene but does not prevent or attract bed bugs specifically.