Estrogen-Gut-Brain Axis: Examining the Role of Combined Oral Contraceptives on Mental Health Through Their Impact on the Gut Microbiome.

Publication/Presentation Date

3-1-2025

Abstract

Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) possess the ability to alter the normal composition of the gut microbiome and the permeability of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which may cause both gut-related and non-gut-related complications. The gut-estrogen axis examines the relationship between estrogens (particularly the active form, estradiol) and the gastrointestinal system and can be attributed to the maintenance of the estrobolome and circulating estradiol levels. The gut-brain axis involves the relationship between the brain and the gastrointestinal system and can be attributed to the gut microbiome in relation to the enteric nervous system (ENS) and serotonin levels. Overall, the introduction of exogenous hormones into an endogenous environment alters the normal balance of both hormones and bacteria. Currently, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the link between COCs and mental health complications such as anxiety and depression, and the diversity in these complications may be related to different types of COCs, their composition, and variations in study populations. This article reviews existing evidence from animal and human studies on the role of COCs in the development of mental health issues through their impact on the gut microbiome.

Volume

17

Issue

3

First Page

81354

Last Page

81354

ISSN

2168-8184

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

40291231

Department(s)

Fellows and Residents

Document Type

Article

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