How do declining estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause alter gut function and symptoms?

Declining estrogen and progesterone levels during perimenopause and menopause have a significant impact on gut function and symptoms. Here at Alloy, we focus on helping you understand and manage these changes:

Gut Motility Slows Down: Lower estrogen slows the movement of your gut, leading to bloating and constipation. Food stays in your digestive tract longer, causing more gas and discomfort.
Fluctuating Symptoms: During perimenopause, hormone levels rise and fall, which can cause alternating constipation and diarrhea, especially around your period.
Increased Gut Sensitivity: Loss of these hormones increases nerve sensitivity in the gut, making you more prone to symptoms like bloating, pain, and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).
Changes in the Microbiome: The balance of good and bad bacteria shifts, reducing beneficial strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. This can lead to “leaky gut” (increased intestinal permeability), more inflammation, and even changes in metabolism and immune function.
Gut-Brain Axis Disruption: Estrogen helps produce serotonin (the “happy hormone”) in the gut. Lower estrogen means less serotonin, which can contribute to mood changes, anxiety, and brain fog.

For a deeper dive, check out our expert-led webinar with Dr. Kumkum Patel on YouTube, especially the chapter on Hormonal Changes & Gut Health: Watch the relevant chapter here.

If you’re looking for support, our Alloy Synbiotic is specially formulated for women in perimenopause and menopause to help restore microbial diversity and support gut health. Learn more or purchase here: Alloy Synbiotic.

You can also read more about gut health and hormones on our blog: Gut Health & Hormones: What Everyone Needs to Know.

At Alloy, we’re here to help you feel your best through every stage of hormonal change!

This answer was created using the following resources: