Gut microbiota and female health

Gut microbiota and female health

The gut microbiota is now recognized as functioning like an endocrine organ, capable of influencing distant organs and various biological systems. The significance of gut microbial balance for women’s health has been brought to light by recent studies. When this balance—known as homeostasis—is disrupted, it may contribute to a range of conditions affecting women, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and cancers such as breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer. However, the specific mechanisms behind these associations are not yet fully understood. This editorial by Wang, Sang & Sun (2024) examines three key ways that gut microbiota dysbiosis may contribute to the development of female-specific diseases: (1) immune system dysregulation, (2) disruption of the gut microbiota–estrogen axis, and (3) imbalances in metabolite production. It also examines treatment approaches, including fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), probiotics, and prebiotics aimed at restoring microbial equilibrium. The authors call for further research into the molecular mechanisms linking microbiota imbalance with women’s diseases, suggesting that such work could support the advancement of precision medicine. FMT, in particular, is highlighted as a promising treatment option. [NPID: Gut microbiota, female health, estrogen, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis]

Year: 2025

Reference: Wang, M.-Y., Sang, L.-X., & Sun, S.-Y. (2024). Gut microbiota and female health. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 30(12), 1655–1662. https://doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v30.i12.1655

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