Your gut and your hormones

Your gut bacteria play a direct role in hormone metabolism through the estrobolome — the collection of bacterial genes that produce beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme that reactivates estrogen for recirculation.

Gut dysbiosis has been linked to endometriosis, PCOS, recurrent implantation failure, and preterm birth through multiple pathways: estrogen recycling, short-chain fatty acid production, and immune signaling between the gut and endometrium.

Hormonal contraception changes the vaginal microbiome (reducing BV risk), so transitioning off also means a microbial transition. Supporting gut health with diverse fiber, fermented foods, and potentially targeted probiotics may help stabilize hormone metabolism.