Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between gut microbiota diversity and ovulatory function in reproductive-aged women. We sought to determine how variations in gut microbial composition correlate with menstrual cycle regularity, ovulation patterns, and hormonal levels, with an emphasis on understanding the gut–ovary axis.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in the northwestern region of Pakistan. A total of 200 reproductive-aged women were included in the study. Data were collected on gut microbiota diversity through stool samples analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing. Serum samples were tested for key reproductive hormones (FSH, LH, estradiol, and progesterone) to assess ovarian function. Participants' menstrual histories were reviewed to evaluate cycle regularity and ovulatory patterns. Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression analyses, were used to assess the relationships between gut microbiota diversity and reproductive health parameters.
Results: The analysis revealed a significant correlation between higher gut microbiota diversity and more regular menstrual cycles, with a greater proportion of participants exhibiting normal ovulation patterns. A positive association was also observed between microbial richness and levels of estradiol and progesterone, which are essential for ovulation and menstrual cycle regulation. In contrast, a lower diversity of gut microbiota was linked to hormonal imbalances, including reduced estradiol levels and irregular menstrual cycles. These findings suggest that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in maintaining reproductive health.
Conclusion: The results of this study underscore the potential impact of gut microbiota diversity on ovulatory function and menstrual regularity in reproductive-aged women. Future longitudinal studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the gut–ovary axis and its implications for fertility and reproductive health. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the importance of the gut microbiome in women's health and highlights its potential as a target for future interventions to promote reproductive health.