Can body odor (bromhidrosis) be transmitted between married couples?

Axillary osmidrosis (body odor) is not directly contagious between couples. Osmidrosis occurs when the gaps between the epithelial cells of apocrine sweat glands are too large, allowing lipids and other macromolecules to be excreted through the apocrine glands onto the skin surface, where they interact with certain specific bacteria, causing odor. The unique secretory characteristics of apocrine glands are primarily determined by genetic factors rather than contagious ones. However, if one partner has osmidrosis and does not maintain proper personal hygiene, bacterial proliferation may occur and indirectly affect the other partner. This is not direct transmission of osmidrosis but rather an indirect result of bacterial growth. Therefore, couples should pay attention to personal hygiene and work together to maintain a healthy living environment.