GUT MICROBIOTA AS A REGULATOR OF FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND EXERCISE ADAPTATION: MECHANISTIC AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(51).2026.6234Keywords:
Gut Microbiota; Estrobolome; Female Reproductive Health; Exercise; Female Athletes; PCOS; EndometriosisAbstract
Introduction: The gut microbiota regulates host metabolism, immune function and endocrine signaling. In women, it may affect reproductive health through estrogen metabolism, inflammation and metabolic homeostasis. Physical activity also modifies microbiota composition, with potential effects on adaptation, recovery and performance.
Aim: This review summarized evidence on gut microbiota in female reproductive health and exercise adaptation, with emphasis on mechanisms and implications in physically active women.
Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. Studies from 2012–2024 were included, especially reviews, meta-analyses and observational studies on gut microbiota, estrobolome, reproductive disorders, exercise and female athletes.
Results: Gut microbiota influences estrogen metabolism through the estrobolome and may affect systemic estrogen levels and reproductive function. Dysbiosis has been associated with PCOS and endometriosis, mainly through metabolic dysfunction and chronic low-grade inflammation. Physical activity may increase microbial diversity and short-chain fatty acid production, supporting metabolic efficiency and anti-inflammatory effects. Excessive exercise may im-pair intestinal barrier integrity and increase gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in athletes. Hormonal fluctuations, contraceptive use and energy availability may further modify microbiota composition.
Conclusions: Gut microbiota appears to link reproductive physiology and exercise adaptation in women. Current evidence supports associations between microbiota, hormonal regulation and metabolic function, but causal relationships remain unclear. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to clarify mechanisms and support personalized strategies for female health and sports performance.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Małgorzata Świderska, Julita Papińska, Jakub Buziak, Magdalena Lengier, Patrycja Małyszek, Franciszek Cezary Pastuszak, Szymon Świstak, Natalia Powęska, Szymon Zych, Julia Pielacha
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