Gut Microbiome & Menstrual Pain
Category: Research & Breakthroughs
Estimated read time: 4 minutes
Original Source
Gut microbiota and menstrual disorders – PubMed Central (2024)
👉 Read full study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10954809/
Microbes and Menstrual Health: Gut & Vaginal Bacteria – Twentyeight Health
👉 Read article: https://www.twentyeighthealth.com/sex-health-guide/your-microbiome-and-menstrual-health-how-gut-and-vaginal-bacteria-shape-pain-cycles-and-infection-risk
Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in healthy women – PubMed Central
👉 Read full study: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3901893/
What the research found
Recent studies show that the trillions of microbes living in your body , especially in the gut and vagina, may play a role in menstrual symptoms, including pain, inflammation and digestive changes.
Researchers have identified associations between specific gut bacteria and menstrual disorders, though causation isn’t proven yet. One bacterial group (Escherichia/Shigella) showed the strongest link to menstrual irregularities after rigorous statistical testing, indicating that the microbiome may influence menstrual health through complex biological pathways.
Another key insight is that changes in the vaginal microbiome often happen during menstruation. Healthy vaginal communities are usually dominated by Lactobacillus bacteria, which help keep pH low and protect against infections. Menstrual blood and fluctuating hormones can temporarily reduce Lactobacilli, increasing the chance of infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) or yeast infections and possibly contributing to inflammation and pain.
Gut microbes also influence estrogen metabolism through the estrobolome, bacterial genes that help the body recycle estrogen. An imbalance here could slow estrogen breakdown, potentially affecting bleeding patterns, cramps and hormone-related symptoms.
Why this matters
Current evidence suggests the microbiome doesn’t just live quietly in your body, it may interact with hormone cycles, inflammation and immune responses that shape how you experience your period. For example:
The gut microbiome can affect estrogen metabolism and digestive symptoms (bloating, diarrhoea or constipation) around your period.
The vaginal microbiome helps protect against infections, and shifts in its composition during menstruation may relate to pain and inflammation.
Microbial activity may even play a role in chronic conditions like endometriosis via hormone and immune pathways (early research).
Together, this research points to the microbiome as a potentially important factor in women’s reproductive and menstrual health — not the only factor, but one worth paying attention to.
What’s still unknown
These studies show associations, not direct cause-and-effect relationships.
Microbiome composition varies widely between individuals.
It’s not yet clear whether microbiome changes are a cause of symptoms or a result of hormonal and physiological cycles.
Larger, long-term clinical trials are needed before specific medical recommendations can be made.
What this means for you
At this stage, supporting your microbiome is best done through well-established lifestyle habits, such as:
Eating a balanced diet rich in fibre and fermented foods
Staying hydrated
Practising good menstrual hygiene
Avoiding vaginal douching or harsh cleansers that can disrupt microbiota balance
These steps won’t guarantee relief, but they support overall gut and vaginal health, which research increasingly links with menstrual wellbeing.
SHE takeaway:
Your microbiome is part of a complex system influencing menstrual health, hormones and immune responses. We’re only beginning to understand these connections, and future research may open new, tailored ways to support women’s cycles through microbiome-friendly approaches.
Medical Disclaimer:
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with concerns about your health.
