Effects of Hormone Therapy on Microbiota Dynamics: Clinical and Physiological Perspectives
Clinical and Physiological Perspectives
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47224/revistamaster.v11i21.865Keywords:
Microbiota, Hormone Therapy, Estrogen, Dysbiosis, Gut microbiomeAbstract
Hormone therapies are widely used in clinical practice, including contraception, menopause management, treatment of gynecological conditions, oncology, and gender-affirming care. Recent evidence highlights a bidirectional relationship between sex hormones and the human microbiota, suggesting that hormonal interventions can influence microbial composition and function, with relevant clinical implications. This integrative review aimed to analyze the effects of hormone therapy on microbiota dynamics and their physiological and clinical impacts.
The findings indicate that hormone therapies modulate both gut and vaginal microbiota, with effects varying according to hormone type and clinical context. Estrogen-based therapies are generally associated with the restoration of microbial homeostasis, particularly through increased abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and improved mucosal conditions. In contrast, hormonal deficiency states are linked to microbial dysbiosis, especially in the vaginal environment. Additionally, functional changes in the gut microbiome, including metabolic pathway modulation, were observed even without major compositional shifts.
These microbial alterations are associated with important clinical outcomes, including effects on inflammation, metabolic and bone health, infection risk, and response to therapies. However, current evidence is limited by methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes.
In conclusion, the interaction between hormone therapy and microbiota represents a promising field, with potential for developing personalized therapeutic strategies and improving clinical outcomes.
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