Interplay Between Estrogen and the Gut Microbiome Across Female Reproductive Transitions

Key messages:

• Estrogen and the gut microbiome regulate each other: hormonal shifts directly influence gut composition, and the microbiome helps control circulating estrogen levels.
• Each reproductive phase disrupts microbial balance differently: pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause cause distinct changes in gut flora that impact metabolism, inflammation, and mood.
• Supporting the gut microbiome through targeted nutrition can ease hormonal symptoms: a diet rich in fiber, polyphenols, and fermented foods helps maintain microbial balance, optimize estrogen metabolism, and reduce inflammation during hormonal transitions.